Libnah

Libnah, a Canaanite city conquered by Joshua (Joshua 10:29-30) and later designated as a Levitical city (Joshua 21:13).

Libnah was a Canaanite city that was conquered by Joshua during the Israelite conquest of the Promised Land (Joshua 10:29-32, 39; 12:15). It was located in the Shephelah region of Judah (Joshua 15:42). Libnah was later designated as a Levitical city, given to the descendants of Aaron (Joshua 21:13; 1Ch.6.57). During the reign of King Joram of Judah, Libnah revolted against Judah's rule (2Ki.8.22; 2Ch.21.10). The city is also mentioned in the context of King Hezekiah's reign, as the place where the Assyrian commander Rabshakeh returned after speaking with Hezekiah's officials (2Ki.19.8; Isaiah 37:8). Libnah was the hometown of Hamutal, the mother of King Jehoahaz and King Zedekiah of Judah (2Ki.23.31; 24:18; Jeremiah 52:1).

One of the royal cities of the Canaanites taken by Joshua (Josh. 10:29-32; 12:15). It became one of the Levitical towns in the tribe of Judah (21:13), and was strongly fortified. Sennacherib laid siege to it (2 Kings 19:8; Isa. 37:8). It was the native place of Hamutal, the queen of Josiah (2 Kings 23:31). It stood near Lachish, and has been identified with the modern Arak el-Menshiyeh.