Topical Encyclopedia The term "Pharaoh" is a title used for the monarchs of ancient Egypt. During the time of King David, the Pharaoh of Egypt played a significant role in the geopolitical landscape of the Near East. Although the Bible does not specify the name of the Pharaoh during David's reign, historical and archaeological evidence suggests that this period corresponds to the late 11th century to the early 10th century BC, potentially aligning with the 21st or 22nd Dynasties of Egypt.Biblical Context The Bible provides limited direct references to the Pharaoh during David's time. However, the relationship between Israel and Egypt during this era can be inferred from various passages. Egypt was a powerful nation, and its influence extended into Canaan, where Israel was establishing itself as a kingdom under David's leadership. One notable interaction between Israel and Egypt during this period is the marriage alliance between Solomon, David's son, and the daughter of Pharaoh. This alliance is mentioned 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 had finished building his palace and the house of the LORD and the wall around Jerusalem." Historical and Archaeological Insights The Pharaoh during David's reign is not explicitly named in the biblical text, but scholars often associate this period with Pharaohs from the 21st Dynasty, such as Psusennes I or Amenemope, or the early 22nd Dynasty, possibly Shoshenq I. These rulers were known for their diplomatic and military activities in the region, which would have included interactions with emerging powers like Israel. The geopolitical situation of the time was complex, with Egypt maintaining a degree of influence over Canaan through military campaigns and political alliances. The marriage of Solomon to Pharaoh's daughter suggests a diplomatic relationship that would have been beneficial for both nations, providing Israel with a powerful ally and Egypt with a foothold in the region. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the interactions between Israel and Egypt during David's time highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to establish Israel as a nation among other great powers. The alliance with Egypt, a former oppressor of the Israelites, underscores the transformation of Israel's status from a group of enslaved people to a sovereign nation capable of forming strategic alliances. The relationship with Egypt also serves as a reminder of the Israelites' past and God's deliverance from bondage, as recounted in the Exodus narrative. This historical context would have been significant for the Israelites, reinforcing their identity and God's providential care over their nation. Conclusion While the Bible does not provide extensive details about the Pharaoh during David's reign, the historical and theological implications of Egypt's interactions with Israel are significant. The marriage alliance between Solomon and Pharaoh's daughter exemplifies the complex relationships between ancient Near Eastern powers and highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 11:17-22That Hadad fled, he and certain Edomites of his father's servants with him, to go into Egypt; Hadad being yet a little child. Nave's Topical Index Library The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. Canaan The Nations of the South-East Acts VII The Captivity. Egypt "In the Volume of the Book it is Written of Me" (Heb. . . Demonstration xxi. --Of Persecution. The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Resources Why was Pharaoh so resistant to Moses' pleas to “let my people go”? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God harden Pharaoh's heart? | GotQuestions.org What was the meaning and purpose of the ten plagues of Egypt? | 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 |
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