They fled to Egypt in fear, relying on political protection rather than divine intervention.
In this passage, we read, “Then all the people, both small and great, and the captains of the forces, arose and went to Egypt; for they were afraid of the Chaldeans.” (v.26) Following the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. and the appointment of Gedaliah as governor by the Babylonian Empire, the remaining residents of Judah found themselves overcome with fear. The reference to “all the people, both small and great” underscores how this terror affected every social class, from the poorest laborers to the respected elders. The “captains of the forces” points to the military leaders who also felt powerless before the might of the Babylonians. Egypt, once a dominant power itself, became the chosen place of refuge. History tells us that Egypt (situated along the Nile River in northeastern Africa) had long been known for its rich civilization and powerful dynasties. Ironically, in earlier biblical history, the Hebrews had been oppressed in Egypt (Exodus), yet in this moment, it offered protection from the violence of a different foreign power.
The Chaldeans were essentially the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar, wielding influence from 626 to 539 B.C. The phrase “they were afraid of the Chaldeans” highlights the terror instilled by this empire that had besieged and ultimately conquered Judah. It is significant that instead of relying on the LORD for deliverance, the people felt compelled to abandon their homeland. This flight to Egypt foreshadows the idea of seeking rescue in another land, similar to how Joseph and Mary later fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s threat (Matthew 2:13), illuminating a recurring theme in the Bible where God’s people sometimes seek haven in unexpected places. Yet, this verse also indicates the uncertainty the Jewish remnant faced—fearing further retribution from the Babylonians without a strong leader to guide them.
Spiritually, “arose and went to Egypt” can be seen as a human reflex to run from immediate danger rather than seeking a covenant relationship with the LORD. Their decision was driven by fear rather than faith, showcasing how dire the circumstances in Jerusalem had become. Equally notable is how fleeing to Egypt took them back to the land from which God had once delivered them centuries prior through Moses. This cyclical return to Egypt illustrates the difficult struggle God’s people faced as they wrestled with trust and hope amid national distress.
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2 Kings 25:26 meaning
In this passage, we read, “Then all the people, both small and great, and the captains of the forces, arose and went to Egypt; for they were afraid of the Chaldeans.” (v.26) Following the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. and the appointment of Gedaliah as governor by the Babylonian Empire, the remaining residents of Judah found themselves overcome with fear. The reference to “all the people, both small and great” underscores how this terror affected every social class, from the poorest laborers to the respected elders. The “captains of the forces” points to the military leaders who also felt powerless before the might of the Babylonians. Egypt, once a dominant power itself, became the chosen place of refuge. History tells us that Egypt (situated along the Nile River in northeastern Africa) had long been known for its rich civilization and powerful dynasties. Ironically, in earlier biblical history, the Hebrews had been oppressed in Egypt (Exodus), yet in this moment, it offered protection from the violence of a different foreign power.
The Chaldeans were essentially the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar, wielding influence from 626 to 539 B.C. The phrase “they were afraid of the Chaldeans” highlights the terror instilled by this empire that had besieged and ultimately conquered Judah. It is significant that instead of relying on the LORD for deliverance, the people felt compelled to abandon their homeland. This flight to Egypt foreshadows the idea of seeking rescue in another land, similar to how Joseph and Mary later fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s threat (Matthew 2:13), illuminating a recurring theme in the Bible where God’s people sometimes seek haven in unexpected places. Yet, this verse also indicates the uncertainty the Jewish remnant faced—fearing further retribution from the Babylonians without a strong leader to guide them.
Spiritually, “arose and went to Egypt” can be seen as a human reflex to run from immediate danger rather than seeking a covenant relationship with the LORD. Their decision was driven by fear rather than faith, showcasing how dire the circumstances in Jerusalem had become. Equally notable is how fleeing to Egypt took them back to the land from which God had once delivered them centuries prior through Moses. This cyclical return to Egypt illustrates the difficult struggle God’s people faced as they wrestled with trust and hope amid national distress.