Johanan son of Kareah is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the events following the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC. He is primarily mentioned in the Book of Jeremiah, where he emerges as a leader among the remnant of Judah.

Background and Role:

Johanan was the son of Kareah and is identified as a military leader. He is first introduced in the context of the chaotic period after the fall of Jerusalem, when the Babylonians appointed Gedaliah as governor over the remaining people in the land of Judah. Johanan, along with other army officers, came to Gedaliah at Mizpah, where the governor had established his administration (Jeremiah 40:7-8).

Conflict with Ishmael:

A critical moment in Johanan's account is his conflict with Ishmael son of Nethaniah. Ishmael, who was of royal blood and had been one of the king's officers, conspired against Gedaliah. Johanan warned Gedaliah of Ishmael's intentions, saying, "Are you aware that Baalis king of the Ammonites has sent Ishmael son of Nethaniah to take your life?" (Jeremiah 40:14). Despite Johanan's warning, Gedaliah did not believe him, and Ishmael subsequently assassinated Gedaliah (Jeremiah 41:2).

After the assassination, Johanan pursued Ishmael to rescue the captives he had taken from Mizpah. Johanan and the other army officers confronted Ishmael at the great pool in Gibeon, and Ishmael fled with eight of his men, while Johanan successfully rescued the captives (Jeremiah 41:11-16).

Flight to Egypt:

Following these events, Johanan and the people were fearful of Babylonian retribution for the murder of Gedaliah. Despite the prophet Jeremiah's counsel to remain in the land and trust in God's protection, Johanan and the leaders decided to flee to Egypt for safety. They said to Jeremiah, "Pray that the LORD your God will tell us the way we should walk and the thing we should do" (Jeremiah 42:3). However, when Jeremiah relayed God's message to stay in Judah, Johanan and the others accused him of lying and led the remnant into Egypt, taking Jeremiah with them (Jeremiah 43:2-7).

Significance:

Johanan's actions reflect the turmoil and fear that gripped the people of Judah after the Babylonian conquest. His leadership in rescuing the captives from Ishmael demonstrates his commitment to the welfare of his people, yet his decision to flee to Egypt against divine counsel highlights the struggle between faith and fear that characterized this period. Johanan's account serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the remnant of Judah and the consequences of failing to trust in God's promises.