Topical Encyclopedia Pharaohnecho, also known as Necho II, was a prominent Egyptian Pharaoh of the 26th Dynasty, reigning from approximately 610 to 595 BC. He is a significant figure in biblical history, particularly in the context of the late 7th century BC, during the decline of the Assyrian Empire and the rise of the Babylonian Empire. His interactions with the Kingdom of Judah are notably recorded in the Old Testament.Historical Context and Reign Pharaohnecho ascended to the throne of Egypt during a period of geopolitical upheaval. The Assyrian Empire, which had dominated the Near East for centuries, was in decline, and new powers, such as Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar II, were emerging. Necho II sought to expand Egyptian influence in the region, particularly in the territories of the former Assyrian Empire. Biblical References Pharaohnecho is mentioned in the Bible primarily in the context of his military campaigns and interactions with the Kingdom of Judah. One of the most significant events involving Necho II is his encounter with King Josiah of Judah. 1. Battle of Megiddo: In 2 Kings 23:29-30 and 2 Chronicles 35:20-24, Pharaohnecho is described as marching to the Euphrates to assist the Assyrians against the Babylonians. King Josiah of Judah, attempting to intercept Necho's forces, engaged him at Megiddo. The Bible records that Josiah was mortally wounded in this battle. The Berean Standard Bible states: "While Josiah was king, Pharaoh Necho king of Egypt went up to the Euphrates River to help the king of Assyria. King Josiah marched out to confront him, but Necho faced him and killed him at Megiddo" (2 Kings 23:29). 2. Aftermath and Influence in Judah: Following Josiah's death, Necho exerted influence over Judah. He deposed Josiah's son Jehoahaz after a brief three-month reign and installed another son, Eliakim, renaming him Jehoiakim, as a vassal king. This is recorded in 2 Kings 23:34: "Pharaoh Necho made Eliakim son of Josiah king in place of his father Josiah and changed Eliakim’s name to Jehoiakim. But he took Jehoahaz and carried him off to Egypt, where he died" . Military Campaigns and Achievements Pharaohnecho's military campaigns were part of a broader strategy to reassert Egyptian power in the Near East. His efforts included attempts to control key trade routes and strategic locations. Despite his initial successes, including the temporary subjugation of Judah, Necho's ambitions were ultimately curtailed by the Babylonians. Legacy Pharaohnecho's interactions with the Kingdom of Judah had lasting implications for the region. His defeat of Josiah marked a turning point in Judah's history, leading to increased instability and eventual subjugation by Babylon. Necho's reign is a testament to the complex interplay of power, politics, and prophecy in the biblical narrative, illustrating the transient nature of earthly kingdoms in contrast to the enduring sovereignty of God. Concordance Pharaohnecho (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 46:2 Thesaurus Pharaohnecho (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Pharaohnecho (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 46:2 Against Egypt, against the army of Pharaohnecho king of Egypt ... /p/pharaohnecho.htm - 6k Megiddo (13 Occurrences) Pharaoh-necho (1 Occurrence) Nebuchadrezzar (31 Occurrences) Pharaoh (245 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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