Topical Bible: Jerusalem: Captured and Pillaged by Shishak, King of Egypt

◄ Jerusalem: Captured and Pillaged by Shishak, King of Egypt ►

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The event of Jerusalem being captured and pillaged by Shishak, the King of Egypt, is a significant moment in the history of Israel, marking a period of divine judgment and political upheaval. This event is recorded in the biblical narrative, specifically in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, and serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

Historical Context

Following the death of King Solomon, the united monarchy of Israel was divided into two kingdoms: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Rehoboam, Solomon's son, ascended to the throne of Judah. His reign was marked by a departure from the ways of his father, as he and the people of Judah forsook the law of the LORD. This apostasy set the stage for divine retribution.

Biblical Account

The account of Shishak's invasion is detailed in 1 Kings 14:25-26 and 2 Chronicles 12:1-12. According to 1 Kings 14:25-26 , "In the fifth year of King Rehoboam, Shishak king of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem. He seized the treasures of the house of the LORD and the treasures of the royal palace. He took everything, including all the gold shields that Solomon had made."

2 Chronicles 12:2-4 provides further insight: "In the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign, because they had been unfaithful to the LORD, Shishak king of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem with 1,200 chariots, 60,000 horsemen, and countless troops who came with him out of Egypt—Libyans, Sukkites, and Cushites. He captured the fortified cities of Judah and came as far as Jerusalem."

Theological Implications

The invasion by Shishak is portrayed as a direct consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness to God. The chronicler emphasizes that this calamity was allowed by God as a form of discipline. In 2 Chronicles 12:5-6 , the prophet Shemaiah conveys God's message to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah: "Thus says the LORD: ‘You have abandoned Me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.’” This pronouncement led to a humbling of the leaders, who acknowledged their sin and declared, "The LORD is righteous."

Divine Mercy and Partial Deliverance

Despite the severity of the judgment, God's mercy is evident. When Rehoboam and the leaders humbled themselves, God provided a measure of deliverance. 2 Chronicles 12:7-8 states, "When the LORD saw that they had humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, 'They have humbled themselves; I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.'"

However, the consequences of their actions were not entirely removed. Shishak still plundered the treasures of Jerusalem, and Judah became subject to Egypt, serving as a reminder of their previous unfaithfulness. This partial deliverance underscores the principle that while God is merciful, the repercussions of sin can still have lasting effects.

Archaeological Corroboration

The historical veracity of Shishak's campaign is supported by archaeological evidence. The Bubastite Portal at Karnak in Egypt contains a relief depicting Shishak's military campaign in Palestine, listing numerous conquered cities, which aligns with the biblical account of his invasion.

Legacy

The capture and pillaging of Jerusalem by Shishak serve as a sobering lesson in the biblical narrative. It highlights the importance of faithfulness to God and the reality of divine discipline. This event is a testament to the enduring themes of judgment, repentance, and mercy that permeate the Scriptures, reminding believers of the need for steadfast devotion to the LORD.

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1 Kings 14:25,26
And it came to pass in the fifth year of king Rehoboam, that Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem:
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2 Chronicles 12:9
So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house; he took all: he carried away also the shields of gold which Solomon had made.
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Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... that those who wished to escape being pillaged had to ... a Millo in every important
town, Jerusalem included ... be his youngest brother Othniel, who captured the city ...
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