Josiah dies at Megiddo; Egypt imposes a new king
About this date: The conventional 609 BCE placement connects the account with Egypt's intervention in the final Assyrian-Babylonian struggle.
Second Kings recounts Josiah's death during Neco's advance, followed by Jehoahaz's brief reign. Neco removes him, appoints Jehoiakim, and demands tribute.
Historical context
The episode connects Judah's royal succession with the contest between Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon. Reform under Josiah did not insulate Judah from regional war.
Key points
- The body of Josiah is brought from Megiddo to Jerusalem.
- Jehoahaz's reign lasts three months in the narrative.
- Jehoiakim taxes the population to meet the Egyptian demand.
People
- Josiah
- Neco II
- Jehoahaz
- Jehoiakim
Scripture
- 2 Kings 23:28–35 — Judah's succession comes under Egyptian pressure.
Sources and further reading
- 2 Kings 23:28–35
Royal deaths, succession, tribute, and note on 23:29.