Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Tehaphnehes, also known as Tahpanhes, is an ancient city mentioned in the Bible, located in the northeastern region of Egypt. It holds historical and theological significance, particularly in the context of the events following the fall of Jerusalem. The city is referenced in the prophetic and historical books of the Old Testament, serving as a backdrop for the fulfillment of divine prophecy and the unfolding of Israel's history. Biblical References: 1. Jeremiah 2:16 : "The men of Memphis and Tahpanhes have shaved the crown of your head." This verse highlights the cities of Memphis and Tahpanhes as places of oppression and humiliation for the people of Israel. The imagery of shaving the crown of the head symbolizes disgrace and subjugation, reflecting the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God. 2. Jeremiah 43:7-9 : "So they entered the land of Egypt because they did not obey the voice of the LORD. And they went as far as Tahpanhes. In Tahpanhes the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah: 'While the Jews are watching, take some large stones in your hand and bury them in the clay of the brick pavement at the entrance to Pharaoh’s palace in Tahpanhes.'" This passage describes the flight of the remnant of Judah to Egypt after the Babylonian conquest, despite God's command to remain in the land. Jeremiah's symbolic act of burying stones at Tahpanhes serves as a prophetic sign of Nebuchadnezzar's future invasion of Egypt. 3. Jeremiah 44:1 : "This is the word that came to Jeremiah concerning all the Jews living in the land of Egypt—in Migdol, Tahpanhes, and Memphis—and in the land of Pathros." Here, Tahpanhes is listed among the locations in Egypt where the Jewish exiles settled. The prophet Jeremiah delivers a message of judgment to these communities, warning them of the consequences of their continued idolatry and rebellion against God. 4. Ezekiel 30:18 : "The day will be darkened in Tahpanhes when I break the yoke of Egypt there. Her proud strength will cease within her; a cloud will cover her, and her daughters will go into captivity." This prophecy from Ezekiel foretells the downfall of Egypt, with Tahpanhes specifically mentioned as a place of impending judgment. The imagery of darkness and captivity underscores the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against Egypt and its allies. Historical and Archaeological Context: Tehaphnehes, identified with the modern site of Tell Defenneh, was a significant frontier city in ancient Egypt. It served as a military and administrative center, strategically located near the eastern border. Archaeological excavations have uncovered fortifications and artifacts that corroborate its historical importance during the period of the 26th Dynasty, aligning with the biblical timeline. Theological Significance: Tehaphnehes represents a place of refuge and rebellion for the people of Judah. Despite God's clear instructions to remain in the land of Judah, the remnant sought safety in Egypt, symbolizing a lack of trust in God's promises. The prophetic messages delivered in Tahpanhes serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the futility of seeking security apart from His will. The city's mention in the context of judgment against Egypt further emphasizes the theme of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's purposes. Conclusion: Tehaphnehes stands as a testament to the historical and prophetic narratives of the Bible, illustrating the consequences of disobedience and the certainty of God's prophetic word. Its role in the biblical account underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the inevitable fulfillment of His divine plan. ATS Bible Dictionary TehaphnehesSee TAHAPANEE. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TEHAPHNEHESte-haf'-ne-hez Strong's Hebrew 8471. Tachpanches -- a city in Egypt... Word Origin of Eg. origin Definition a city in Eg. NASB Word Usage Tahpanhes (6), Tehaphnehes (1). Tahanites. Or Tchaphnchec (Ezek. ... /hebrew/8471.htm - 6k 8472. Tachpenes -- an Eg. queen Thesaurus Tehaphnehes (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TEHAPHNEHES. te-haf'-ne-hez See TAHPANHES. Multi-Version Concordance Tehaphnehes (1 Occurrence). ... /t/tehaphnehes.htm - 7k Tehaph'nehes (1 Occurrence) Tahpanhes (7 Occurrences) Yokes (6 Occurrences) Tahapanes (1 Occurrence) Pomp (13 Occurrences) Darkened (28 Occurrences) Teeth (50 Occurrences) Excellency (53 Occurrences) Withdraw (52 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Tehaphnehes (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 30:18 Subtopics Tehaphnehes Tahpanhes Tahapanes Related Terms |