2 Kings 25:26
And all the people both small and great, and the captaines of the armies arose, and came to Egypt: for they were afraid of the Caldees. 2 Kings 25:26 (KJV)
This verse is found in the concluding chapter of the book of 2 Kings, which describes the fall of Jerusalem and the exile of the people of Judah to Babylon. The verse occurs in the context of the aftermath of the Babylonian conquest. During the reign of King Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, the Babylonians, led by King Nebuchadnezzar, besieged Jerusalem. The siege lasted for about two years, resulting in a severe famine within the city. Eventually the Babylonians breached the city walls, captured Zedekiah, and executed his sons in his presence. Then they blinded Zedekiah and carried him off to Babylon, along with many other captives. The Babylonians also burned down the temple, the royal palace, and the houses of Jerusalem.
Turning our attention to 2 Kings 25:26, we read: “And all the people, both small and great, and the captains of the armies arose and came to Egypt; for they were afraid of the Chaldees.” After the fall of Jerusalem, some of the remaining people, including those of various social ranks and military leaders, fled to Egypt out of fear of the Chaldeans (the Babylonians). They sought refuge in Egypt, hoping to escape the harsh rule of the Babylonians and find safety in a foreign land.
It is important to note that seeking refuge in Egypt was not a new phenomenon for the people of Judah. Throughout the history of Israel and Judah, Egypt often served as a place of refuge during times of political turmoil. However, seeking help from Egypt rather than trusting in God and His guidance was often seen as an act of unfaithfulness and disobedience.
This verse reveals the depth of fear and desperation that had gripped the people of Judah. They were willing to abandon their homeland and seek refuge in a foreign land rather than face the consequences of the Babylonian conquest. The action also demonstrated a lack of trust in God’s ability to protect and deliver them.
