Charchemish, also spelled Carchemish, is an ancient city of significant historical and biblical importance, located on the banks of the Euphrates River. It is situated in what is now modern-day Turkey, near the border with Syria. The city is mentioned in the Bible and is notable for its strategic and military significance in the ancient Near East.

Biblical References:

Charchemish is referenced in the Bible in the context of a major battle involving the Egyptians and Babylonians. The most notable mention is found in the Book of Jeremiah and the Book of 2 Chronicles:

· Jeremiah 46:2 : "Concerning Egypt: This is the message against the army of Pharaoh Necho king of Egypt, which was defeated at Charchemish on the Euphrates River by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon in the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, king of Judah."

· 2 Chronicles 35:20 : "After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple, Necho king of Egypt went up to fight at Charchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah marched out to confront him."

These passages highlight the Battle of Charchemish, which took place around 605 BC. This battle was a pivotal event in the power struggle between the Egyptian and Babylonian empires. Pharaoh Necho II of Egypt sought to aid the remnants of the Assyrian Empire against the rising power of Babylon, led by Nebuchadnezzar II. The defeat of the Egyptian forces at Charchemish marked the decline of Egyptian influence in the region and the rise of Babylon as a dominant power.

Historical and Archaeological Significance:

Charchemish was a major city in the ancient Hittite Empire and later became an important center for the Assyrians. Its strategic location on the Euphrates made it a key military and trade hub. The city's history is marked by its role as a battleground for empires seeking control over the region.

Archaeological excavations at Charchemish have uncovered significant artifacts and structures, including fortifications, palaces, and temples. These findings provide insight into the city's role in ancient Near Eastern politics and culture. The site has yielded inscriptions and reliefs that offer valuable information about the Hittite and Assyrian periods.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the events at Charchemish underscore the fulfillment of prophetic declarations and the sovereignty of God over the nations. The defeat of Pharaoh Necho at Charchemish, as prophesied by Jeremiah, serves as a testament to the accuracy and authority of biblical prophecy. It also illustrates the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's purposes.

In summary, Charchemish is a city of great historical and biblical significance, serving as a backdrop for key events that shaped the ancient Near East. Its mention in the Bible highlights the interplay of divine prophecy and historical events, demonstrating the unfolding of God's plan in the affairs of nations.Charchemish

a lamb; as taken away; withdrawn

Charchemish

(2 Chronicles 35:20) [CARCHEMISH]

CHARCHEMISH

kar'-ke-mish.

See CARCHEMISH.

Charchemish (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHARCHEMISH. kar'-ke-mish. See CARCHEMISH.
Multi-Version Concordance Charchemish (1 Occurrence). ...
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Necho (3 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 35:20 After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple, Necho king
of Egypt came up to fight against Charchemish by Euphrates: and Josiah went ...
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Charax

/c/charax.htm - 6k

Charchus
Charchus. Charchemish, Charchus. Charcoal . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ...
kar'-kus. See BARCHUS. Charchemish, Charchus. Charcoal . Reference Bible.
/c/charchus.htm - 6k

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