Topical Encyclopedia
Pharaoh-neco, also known as Necho II, was a prominent Egyptian ruler of the 26th Dynasty, reigning from approximately 610 to 595 BC. He is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, 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 books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.
Historical ContextPharaoh-neco ascended to the throne during a tumultuous period in the ancient Near East. The Assyrian Empire, which had dominated the region for centuries, was in decline, and new powers, such as Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar II, were emerging. Egypt, under Necho's leadership, sought to assert its influence and control over the territories of the former Assyrian Empire, particularly in the Levant.
Biblical AccountsPharaoh-neco's most notable biblical encounter is with King Josiah of Judah. In
2 Kings 23:29-30 , it is recorded: "While Josiah was king, Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt went up to the Euphrates River to help the king of Assyria. King Josiah marched out to meet him, but Neco faced him and killed him at Megiddo. Josiah’s servants carried his body in a chariot from Megiddo to Jerusalem and buried him in his own tomb."
This passage highlights the geopolitical tensions of the time, with Josiah attempting to thwart Necho's advance, possibly to prevent Egyptian dominance or to support Babylonian interests. Josiah's death at Megiddo was a significant event, leading to a period of instability in Judah.
Further details are provided in
2 Chronicles 35:20-24 , where Necho sends messengers to Josiah, saying, "What have I to do with you, king of Judah? I am not coming against you this day, but against the house with which I am at war. God has told me to hurry, so stop opposing God, who is with me, or He will destroy you." Despite this warning, Josiah engaged in battle and was fatally wounded.
Aftermath and InfluenceFollowing Josiah's death, Necho exerted influence over Judah by deposing Josiah's successor, Jehoahaz, after a brief three-month reign. Necho then installed Eliakim, Josiah's son, as king, renaming him Jehoiakim (
2 Kings 23:34). This act demonstrated Necho's authority and the subjugation of Judah under Egyptian control, albeit temporarily.
Pharaoh-neco's ambitions, however, were curtailed by the Babylonians. In 605 BC, at the Battle of Carchemish, Necho's forces were decisively defeated by Nebuchadnezzar II, marking the end of Egyptian influence in the region and the rise of Babylon as the dominant power.
LegacyPharaoh-neco's interactions with Judah are a testament to the complex political landscape of the ancient Near East. His role in the death of Josiah and the subsequent changes in Judah's leadership underscore the vulnerability of smaller states caught between larger empires. Necho's reign is a reminder of the shifting alliances and the divine providence that the biblical narrative often emphasizes, illustrating the belief that God orchestrates the affairs of nations according to His purposes.
Strong's Hebrew
6549. Paroh Neko -- an Eg. king... Neco. Word Origin from Paroh and Neko Definition an Eg. king NASB Word Usage
Pharaoh Neco (5). Paroh-Nekoh or, an Egyptian king. Or
...Thesaurus
Pharaoh-neco (1 Occurrence)Pharaoh-
neco. Pharaoh-nechoh,
Pharaoh-
neco. Pharaohnecoh .
Multi-Version Concordance
Pharaoh-
neco (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah
...Pharaohnecoh
Armor (53 Occurrences)
... In Jeremiah's ode of triumph over the defeat ofPharaoh-neco, there is mention of
the arms of the Egyptians: "Prepare ye the buckler and shield, and draw near...
Arms (166 Occurrences)
... In Jeremiah's ode of triumph over the defeat ofPharaoh-neco, there is mention of
the arms of the Egyptians: "Prepare ye the buckler and shield, and draw near...
Pharaoh-nechoh (3 Occurrences)
Pharaoh-nechoh. Pharaohnechoh, Pharaoh-nechoh.Pharaoh-neco . Multi-Version
Concordance... (DBY WBS YLT). Pharaohnechoh, Pharaoh-nechoh.Pharaoh-neco ....
Euphra'tes (33 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 46:2 Of Egypt: concerning the army ofPharaoh-neco king of Egypt, which
was by the river Euphrates in Carchemish, which Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon...
Overcame (84 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 46:2 Of Egypt: about the army ofPharaoh-neco, king of Egypt, which was
by the river Euphrates in Carchemish, which Nebuchadrezzar, king of Babylon...
Resources
What is the significance of Egypt in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Jehoiachin in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was the Pharaoh of the Exodus? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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