The Near East (897–886 BCE): Religious Reform, Strategic Alliances, and Dynastic Transitions

Dynastic Stability and Intrigue in Egypt

The reign of Osorkon I, who presides peacefully and prosperously over Egypt’s Twenty-second Dynasty, concludes around 887 BCE. Although Osorkon’s tomb has never been discovered, his extensive temple-building activities underscore the stability and cultural revival he fostered. His likely successor, Takelot I, ascends to the throne amidst uncertainty caused by evidence of a possible intervening reign by Heqakheperre Shoshenq II. Shoshenq II, possibly Osorkon's son by senior wife Queen Maatkare B or even another son of Shoshenq I, briefly asserts independent rule from Tanis. His short tenure, lasting approximately two years, is marked by the grandeur of his tomb, richly furnished with jewelry, a distinctive falcon-headed silver coffin, and a golden death mask, reflecting genuine royal authority rather than mere co-regency.

Religious Reformation and Military Strategy in Judah

In the Kingdom of Judah, King Asa (circa 913–873 BCE) advances significant religious reforms. He continues purging pagan practices, notably banning male cult prostitution and dismantling worship of the Canaanite goddess Asherah, actions that lead to the removal of his own grandmother, Queen Mother Maacah, from power due to her adherence to these practices.

Following thirty-five years of relative tranquility, Asa bolsters Judah’s defensive infrastructure, reinforcing fortifications originally established by his grandfather, Rehoboam. This period of stability is disrupted by military threats, notably an invasion led by Zerah the Ethiopian—possibly identified as either Pharaoh Osorkon I or Osorkon II—backed by Egyptian forces. Asa successfully repels Zerah’s numerically superior forces in the Valley of Zephath near Mareshah, securing Judah from further Egyptian aggression for generations.

Late in Asa’s reign, the Northern Kingdom of Israel, under King Baasha, constructs the strategic fortress of Ramah, placing direct pressure on Judah's capital, Jerusalem. In response, Asa strategically aligns with King Ben-Hadad I of Aram Damascus, incentivizing him to break peace with Baasha and attack northern Israelite cities. This maneuver forces Baasha to abandon Ramah, allowing Asa to dismantle the fortress and repurpose its materials to strengthen Judah’s border fortresses at Geba and Mizpah.

Persistent Conflict and Instability in Israel

Meanwhile, the Northern Kingdom of Israel experiences ongoing instability under the reign of King Baasha (circa 909–886 BCE). Having ascended through assassination and political violence, Baasha rules for twenty-three years, characterized by continued warfare against Judah and internal unrest. Biblical historians later describe Baasha negatively, emphasizing his role in perpetuating religious and political instability within Israel.

Summary of the Era

From 897 to 886 BCE, the Near East is defined by profound religious reforms and strategic geopolitical maneuvers in Judah, a stable yet transitional dynastic period in Egypt, and persistent turmoil within Israel. These developments collectively illustrate the complexities of the period, foreshadowing further regional transformations.