Also called: Zedekiah, Mattaniah
Zedekiah, originally named Mattaniah, was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. He was appointed king by Nebuchadnezzar II and ruled from 597 to 586 BCE. His reign was marked by political instability and conflict with the prophet Jeremiah.[2KI 24:17][2KI 24:18][2KI 24:20][JER 1:3]
Appointment as King
Zedekiah is appointed king of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar II after the exile of Jehoiachin.[2KI 24:17]
Rebellion Against Babylon
Zedekiah rebels against Babylon, leading to a siege of Jerusalem.[JER 21:1][JER 27:3]
Fall of Jerusalem
Jerusalem falls to the Babylonians, leading to Zedekiah's capture and the destruction of the city.[JER 39:1][JER 52:5]
Blindness and Imprisonment
After his capture, Zedekiah is blinded and taken to Babylon, where he dies.[JER 39:6][JER 52:11]
Zedekiah's reign is significant as it represents the final phase of the Kingdom of Judah before its destruction and the Babylonian captivity. His actions and decisions, particularly his rebellion against Babylon, are critical to the understanding of the historical context of the exile.[2CH 36:11][JER 39:1][JER 52:3]
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