Topical Encyclopedia The term "Pharaoh" refers to the ancient rulers of Egypt, a title that appears frequently in the biblical narrative. The word "Pharaoh" itself is derived from the Egyptian term "per-aa," meaning "great house," which initially referred to the royal palace but eventually came to denote the king himself. In the Bible, Pharaohs are often depicted as powerful monarchs who played significant roles in the history of Israel, particularly during the periods of the patriarchs, the Exodus, and the monarchy.Pharaohs in the Patriarchal Period The first mention of a Pharaoh in the Bible occurs in the context of Abraham's journey to Egypt due to a famine in Canaan (Genesis 12:10-20). Here, Pharaoh takes Sarai, Abraham's wife, into his palace, believing her to be Abraham's sister. God intervenes by sending plagues upon Pharaoh's household, prompting him to release Sarai and send Abraham away with great wealth. Pharaohs in the Exodus Narrative The most prominent Pharaoh in the biblical account is the one who reigned during the time of Moses and the Exodus. This Pharaoh is characterized by his hardened heart and refusal to let the Israelites go, despite the series of devastating plagues that God inflicts upon Egypt. The narrative reaches its climax with the death of the firstborn in Egypt, leading to the release of the Israelites (Exodus 12:29-32). The Pharaoh's subsequent pursuit of the Israelites results in the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and the destruction of the Egyptian army (Exodus 14:21-28). Pharaohs in the Monarchical Period During the time of the Israelite monarchy, interactions with Egypt and its Pharaohs continue. Notably, Solomon forms an alliance with Egypt by marrying Pharaoh's daughter (1 Kings 3:1). This alliance is indicative of the political and economic ties between Israel and Egypt during Solomon's reign. Later, during the divided kingdom, Pharaoh Shishak invades Judah and plunders the treasures of the temple and the royal palace during the reign of Rehoboam (1 Kings 14:25-26). Pharaoh Neco and the Late Period In the late period of the kingdom of Judah, Pharaoh Neco II plays a significant role. He is mentioned in the context of the battle of Megiddo, where King Josiah of Judah is killed while attempting to intercept Neco's army (2 Kings 23:29-30). Neco later deposes Jehoahaz, Josiah's son, and installs Jehoiakim as king, effectively making Judah a vassal state of Egypt (2 Kings 23:34-35). Pharaohs in Prophetic Literature The prophets frequently refer to Egypt and its Pharaohs, often as symbols of worldly power and opposition to God's purposes. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel prophesy against Egypt, foretelling its downfall and emphasizing the futility of relying on Egypt for security (Isaiah 31:1-3; Jeremiah 46:25-26; Ezekiel 29:2-6). These prophecies underscore the biblical theme of trusting in God rather than in human powers. Pharaohs as Symbols of Oppression and Deliverance Throughout the biblical narrative, Pharaohs often symbolize oppression and the need for divine deliverance. The account of the Exodus, in particular, serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to liberate His people from bondage. The repeated hardening of Pharaoh's heart (Exodus 7:3-4) highlights the theme of divine judgment and the ultimate triumph of God's will over human obstinacy. In summary, the Pharaohs in the Bible are depicted as formidable rulers whose interactions with the Israelites are marked by conflict, political maneuvering, and divine intervention. Their presence in the biblical narrative serves to illustrate key theological themes, including God's sovereignty, the futility of opposing His purposes, and the deliverance of His people. Library Illustrations The Cradle that was Rocked by a River. The Rod that Troubled Egypt. Moses in the Desert. Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Dilemma and Deliverance Thesaurus Pharoah's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Pharoah's (1 Occurrence). Deuteronomy 6:21 Then thou shalt say to thy son, We were Pharoah's bond-men in ... /p/pharoah's.htm - 6k Pharnach (1 Occurrence) Pharosh (1 Occurrence) Bond-men (16 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Pharoah's (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 6:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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