jan 1, 587 BC - Siege of Jerusalem

Description:

The siege of Jerusalem (circa 589–587 BC) marked the culmination of the Judahite revolts against Babylon, led by King Nebuchadnezzar II. Lasting for 30 months, the siege resulted in the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of Solomon's Temple. The Kingdom of Judah was dissolved, and many of its people were exiled to Babylon.

During the late 7th century BC, Judah became a vassal kingdom of Babylon. In 601 BC, King Jehoiakim of Judah rebelled against Babylonian rule. Following his death, his son Jeconiah ascended the throne. In 597 BC, Babylon besieged Jerusalem, leading to its surrender. Jeconiah and prominent citizens were deported to Babylon, while his uncle Zedekiah was installed as king.

Encouraged by Egypt, Zedekiah revolted against Babylon again. In response, Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem in 598 BC. The final siege began in January 589 BC, lasting 18 to 30 months. Jerusalem fell, and Zedekiah was captured. The city and its temple were destroyed, leading to a religious and political crisis.

The Babylonian general Nebuzaradan completed the destruction of Jerusalem, deporting most Judeans to Babylon. Gedaliah was appointed governor of the remnant of Judah, but was later assassinated. The Judeans fled to Egypt for safety.

Scholars debate whether the siege ended in 586 BC or 587 BC. Archaeological evidence confirms the destruction of Jerusalem in 587 or 586 BC, including burned structures and artifacts. Surrounding towns were also destroyed, except for the region of Benjamin, which became the center of the Babylonian province of Yehud.

Added to timeline:

Date: