Gedaliah is killed at Mizpah; survivors flee
About this date: The source names the seventh month but does not securely resolve how long Gedaliah governed. 586 BCE is a navigation anchor, not a certain assassination year.
Babylon appoints Gedaliah over the population remaining in Judah. His assassination undermines the new administration and prompts a flight toward Egypt.
Historical context
Political disruption continues after the capital's destruction. The story follows people who remained in the land rather than only those deported to Babylon.
Perspective note
Comparative historical/source study. The original author's or church's reception is retained; inclusion does not make every claim Oriental Orthodox teaching.
Key points
- Gedaliah asks local commanders to remain and cooperate.
- The attack also kills Judean and Babylonian personnel.
- Fear of retaliation drives the subsequent flight.
People
- Gedaliah
- Ishmael son of Nethaniah
- Johanan
Scripture
- 2 Kings 25:22–26 — The aftermath of conquest includes internal violence and further displacement.
Sources and further reading
- 2 Kings 25:22–26 (KJV)
The governorship, assassination, and flight.