Topical Encyclopedia Pharaoh, the father-in-law of King Solomon, is a significant yet somewhat enigmatic figure in the biblical narrative. His identity and role are primarily mentioned in the context of Solomon's reign, a period marked by unprecedented peace and prosperity for the united kingdom of Israel. This Pharaoh is noted for his political alliance with Solomon, which was solidified through marriage.Biblical References The primary reference to this Pharaoh is found in 1 Kings 3:1: "Solomon made an alliance with Pharaoh king of Egypt by marrying his daughter. Solomon brought her to the City of David until he finished building his palace, the LORD’s temple, and the wall surrounding Jerusalem." . This alliance through marriage was a common practice in the ancient Near East, serving to strengthen political ties and ensure mutual peace between powerful nations. Further mention of this Pharaoh occurs in 1 Kings 9:16: "Pharaoh king of Egypt had attacked and captured Gezer. He had set it on fire, killed the Canaanites who lived in the city, and then given it as a wedding gift to his daughter, Solomon’s wife." . This act of gifting Gezer to Solomon's wife underscores the depth of the alliance and the Pharaoh's commitment to supporting Solomon's reign. Historical and Cultural Context The identity of this Pharaoh is not explicitly stated in the biblical text, leading to various scholarly conjectures. Some suggest he could be one of the Pharaohs from the 21st or 22nd Dynasties of Egypt, a period characterized by internal strife and decentralization in Egypt. This context might explain why a Pharaoh would seek a strong alliance with a rising power like Israel under Solomon. The marriage between Solomon and Pharaoh's daughter is significant for several reasons. It represents a diplomatic strategy that not only secured peace but also facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Israel and Egypt. This alliance likely contributed to the wealth and wisdom for which Solomon's reign is renowned. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the marriage between Solomon and Pharaoh's daughter is a complex issue. While it demonstrates Solomon's political acumen, it also foreshadows potential spiritual pitfalls. The Law of Moses warned against intermarriage with foreign nations, primarily due to the risk of idolatry (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). Solomon's numerous foreign marriages eventually led him to idolatry, as noted in 1 Kings 11:1-4, where his foreign wives turned his heart after other gods. This alliance with Pharaoh, therefore, serves as a reminder of the tension between political expediency and spiritual fidelity. It highlights the challenges faced by leaders in maintaining their devotion to God while navigating the complexities of international relations. Legacy The Pharaoh who became Solomon's father-in-law remains a figure shrouded in mystery, yet his impact on Israel's history is undeniable. His alliance with Solomon contributed to a period of peace and prosperity, allowing Solomon to focus on monumental projects like the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. However, it also set a precedent for the challenges that would later arise from Solomon's foreign alliances and marriages. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 3:1And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 9:16 Library How Solomon Fortified the City of Jerusalem, and Built Great ... Book 8 Footnotes Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. The Antiquities of the Jews Chapter xlvii The Nations of the South-East Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... part viii. Appendices Against Jovinianus. Resources What is the meaning of Zaphenath-Paneah in Genesis 41:45? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Aaron in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Moses in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Pharaoh: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pharaoh: At the Time of Hezekiah Pharaoh: Father-In-Law of Mered Pharaoh: Father-In-Law of Solomon Pharaoh: King of Egypt at the Time of Abraham Pharaoh: Pharaoh-Hophra: Prophecies Concerning Pharaoh: Pharaoh-Necho: His Invasion of Assyria, Josiah's Death Pharaoh: Ruler of Egypt at the Time of David Related Terms Pharaoh-nechoh (3 Occurrences) |
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