Jeremiah 46:2
concerning Egypt and the army of Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt, which was defeated at Carchemish on the Euphrates River by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah:
concerning Egypt and the army of Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt
This phrase introduces the subject of the prophecy, focusing on Egypt and its ruler, Pharaoh Neco. Egypt was a significant power in the ancient Near East, often interacting with Israel and Judah. Pharaoh Neco II reigned from 610-595 BC and was known for his military campaigns. His involvement in the region is noted in 2 Kings 23:29-30, where he killed King Josiah of Judah at Megiddo. This event marked a turning point for Judah, leading to its eventual downfall.

which was defeated at Carchemish on the Euphrates River
The Battle of Carchemish, occurring around 605 BC, was a pivotal conflict between the Egyptian forces and the Babylonians. Carchemish was a strategic city located on the Euphrates River, serving as a critical point for controlling trade and military movements. The defeat of Egypt at Carchemish marked the decline of Egyptian influence in the region and the rise of Babylon as the dominant power. This battle is also mentioned in 2 Chronicles 35:20-24, highlighting its significance in biblical history.

by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar II, one of the most prominent Babylonian kings, reigned from 605-562 BC. Known for his military prowess and architectural achievements, he played a crucial role in the expansion of the Babylonian Empire. His victory at Carchemish solidified his power and set the stage for his later conquests, including the eventual siege and destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC, as recorded in 2 Kings 25:1-21. Nebuchadnezzar's actions fulfilled several prophecies concerning the judgment of nations, including those found in Jeremiah.

in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah
Jehoiakim, son of the reformer King Josiah, reigned over Judah from 609-598 BC. His reign was marked by political instability and shifting allegiances between Egypt and Babylon. The fourth year of Jehoiakim's reign corresponds to 605 BC, aligning with the timing of the Battle of Carchemish. This period was critical for Judah, as it faced increasing pressure from Babylon, leading to its eventual subjugation. Jehoiakim's reign is detailed in 2 Kings 23:36-24:7, where his failure to heed prophetic warnings contributed to Judah's downfall.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Pharaoh Neco
The king of Egypt during the late 7th century BC, known for his military campaigns and involvement in the politics of the Near East.

2. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, a dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for his conquests and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem.

3. Carchemish
A significant ancient city located on the Euphrates River, known for the pivotal battle where Babylon defeated Egypt.

4. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah, son of Josiah, whose reign was marked by political turmoil and subjugation to foreign powers.

5. The Euphrates River
A major river in the Near East, serving as a strategic location for military campaigns and trade routes.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The defeat of Egypt by Babylon illustrates God's control over the rise and fall of empires. Believers can trust in God's ultimate authority over world events.

The Consequences of Political Alliances
Judah's alliances with foreign powers like Egypt often led to negative consequences. Christians are reminded to seek God's guidance rather than relying solely on human alliances.

The Importance of Historical Context
Understanding the historical and geopolitical context of biblical events enriches our comprehension of Scripture. It encourages believers to study the Bible deeply and contextually.

Prophecy Fulfillment as a Faith Builder
The fulfillment of prophecies, such as the defeat of Egypt, strengthens our faith in the reliability and truth of God's Word.

Lessons from Leadership
The actions of leaders like Pharaoh Neco and Jehoiakim serve as reminders of the impact of leadership decisions. Believers are called to pray for and support godly leadership.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the historical context of Jeremiah 46:2 enhance your understanding of God's sovereignty over nations?

2. In what ways can the account of Egypt's defeat at Carchemish inform our approach to modern political and personal alliances?

3. How do the prophecies against Egypt in Isaiah and Ezekiel reinforce the message of Jeremiah 46:2?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership of Pharaoh Neco and Jehoiakim, and how can these lessons be applied to our lives today?

5. How can the fulfillment of biblical prophecies, such as the defeat of Egypt, strengthen your faith and trust in God's Word?
Connections to Other Scriptures
2 Kings 23-24
These chapters provide historical context for the reign of Jehoiakim and the geopolitical dynamics involving Egypt and Babylon.

Isaiah 19
This chapter contains prophecies concerning Egypt, offering a broader understanding of Egypt's role and fate in biblical prophecy.

Ezekiel 29-30
These chapters also prophesy against Egypt, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over nations.
Judgment Going on from the House of GodS. Conway Jeremiah 46:1-28
People
Amon, Cushites, Ethiopians, Jacob, Jehoiakim, Jeremiah, Josiah, Lud, Ludim, Lydia, Lydians, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, Pharaoh, Pharaohnecho, Phut
Places
Babylon, Carchemish, Carmel, Cush, Egypt, Euphrates River, Gilead, Lud, Memphis, Migdol, Nile River, Put, Tabor, Tahpanhes, Thebes
Topics
Army, Babylon, Carchemish, Car'chemish, Carshemish, Defeated, Egypt, Euphrates, Euphra'tes, Force, Fourth, Jehoiakim, Jehoi'akim, Josiah, Josi'ah, Judah, Message, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, Nebuchadrez'zar, Neco, Necoh, Overcame, Pharaoh, Pharaohnecho, Pharaoh-necho, Pharaoh-neco, Phrat, River, Smitten, Smote, Struck
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Jeremiah 46:2-4

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Library
Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7

A Clearing-Up Storm in the Realm
(Revelation, Chapters vi.-viii.) "God Almighty! King of nations! earth Thy footstool, heaven Thy throne! Thine the greatness, power, and glory, Thine the kingdom, Lord, alone! Life and death are in Thy keeping, and Thy will ordaineth all: From the armies of Thy heavens to an unseen insect's fall. "Reigning, guiding, all-commanding, ruling myriad worlds of light; Now exalting, now abasing, none can stay Thy hand of might! Working all things by Thy power, by the counsel of Thy will. Thou art God!
by S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on the Crowned Christ of Revelation

Jeremiah
The interest of the book of Jeremiah is unique. On the one hand, it is our most reliable and elaborate source for the long period of history which it covers; on the other, it presents us with prophecy in its most intensely human phase, manifesting itself through a strangely attractive personality that was subject to like doubts and passions with ourselves. At his call, in 626 B.C., he was young and inexperienced, i. 6, so that he cannot have been born earlier than 650. The political and religious
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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