2 Kings 23:35

“But Jehoiakim gave the silver and the gold to Pharaoh; but he taxed the land to give the money according to the commandment of Pharaoh: he exacted the silver and the gold of the people of the land, of every one according to his taxation, to give it unto Pharaoh-nechoh.”

2 Kings 23:35 is a verse that describes an event during the reign of King Jehoiakim, who ruled over the kingdom of Judah. It provides us with insights into Jehoiakim’s relationship with Pharaoh Nechoh of Egypt and the financial burden imposed on the people of Judah.

To understand the context of this verse, it is helpful to consider the surrounding verses. In the previous verses, we learn that Jehoiakim’s father, Josiah, was a righteous king who initiated sweeping religious reforms in Judah. However, after Josiah’s death, Jehoiakim came to power and did evil in the sight of the Lord (2 Kings 23:36).

Now, let’s delve deeper into the verse itself:

Jehoiakim’s financial obligations:The verse states that Jehoiakim gave the silver and gold to Pharaoh. This indicates that Jehoiakim paid tribute or taxes to Pharaoh Nechoh. It is likely that this payment was in return for Pharaoh’s military support or to maintain peaceful relations between Egypt and Judah.

Taxation of the land:To fulfill his financial obligations, Jehoiakim imposed a tax on the land. This suggests that he levied taxes on the people of Judah to obtain the required silver and gold. The people were expected to contribute according to their ability, and the exact amount was determined by their taxation.

Compliance with Pharaoh’s command:The verse emphasizes that Jehoiakim exacted the silver and gold from the people according to the commandment of Pharaoh Nechoh. This implies that Jehoiakim acted in accordance with Pharaoh’s instructions, indicating a subordinate relationship between Judah and Egypt.

Pharaoh Nechoh’s identity:The verse specifically mentions Pharaoh-nechoh. This is a reference to Pharaoh Nechoh II, who ruled Egypt from 610-595 BC. Nechoh was involved in various military campaigns, including a significant one against the Babylonians. He sought to expand Egyptian influence and control over the region.

This verse reveals a complex political and economic situation in the kingdom of Judah during Jehoiakim’s reign. Jehoiakim, as the king, was compelled to comply with Pharaoh Nechoh’s demands for tribute or taxes. This burden fell on the people, who had to contribute the required silver and gold through taxation.

It is worth noting that the Bible does not explicitly commend or condemn Jehoiakim’s actions in this verse. However, the overall account of Jehoiakim’s reign in the books of Kings and Chronicles portrays him as an unfaithful and wicked king who led Judah further away from God’s commandments.

By studying this verse, we gain historical insights into the political dynamics of the time and the challenges faced by the people of Judah under Jehoiakim’s rule. It serves as a reminder of the consequences that can arise when leaders prioritize worldly alliances and obligations over their commitment to God.