jan 1, 609 BC - Battle of Megiddo

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The Battle of Megiddo occurred in 609 BC when Pharaoh Necho II of Egypt marched his army to Carchemish to support the fading Neo-Assyrian Empire against the rising Neo-Babylonian Empire. King Josiah of Judah refused passage to the Egyptians, leading to a confrontation at Megiddo, where Josiah was killed, resulting in Judah becoming a vassal state of Egypt. The battle is recounted in the Hebrew Bible, 1 Esdras, and writings of Josephus.

According to biblical accounts, Josiah was warned by Necho not to interfere, but he disregarded the warning and engaged in battle. He disguised himself but was fatally wounded by Egyptian archers. His death led to Judah falling under Egyptian control, with Necho installing Jehoiakim as king.

Debate exists over the accuracy of the biblical narrative. Some scholars question the historicity of the battle, citing similarities to earlier stories in Kings and suggesting that the Chronicler may have embellished the account. Additionally, historical evidence for the battle outside the Bible is scarce, leading to uncertainty about its occurrence.

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