The Near East (825–814 BCE): Egyptian Division and Israelite Struggles

Egyptian Fragmentation Deepens

Between 825 and 814 BCE, Egypt's political fragmentation intensifies, particularly after the reign of Osorkon II. By approximately 818 BCE, control of Egypt is effectively divided, with Shoshenq III of the Twenty-second Dynasty ruling over Lower Egypt from Memphis and the Delta region, while Upper and Middle Egypt are governed by Takelot II and his son Osorkon, later known as Osorkon III. Following the death of Takelot II, rivalry erupts between his sons Osorkon and Shoshenq III, plunging Thebes into a civil conflict.

Adding to the political complexity, Pedubast I, a ruler of Libyan ancestry, had earlier declared himself Pharaoh, founding the Twenty-third Dynasty and reigning primarily over Thebes and Upper Egypt. His rule, lasting approximately twenty-five years, represents a further layer of political division. The competition between Pedubast I and the existing line of Takelot II/Osorkon III characterizes this turbulent era, underscoring the extent of Egypt's fragmentation during the Third Intermediate Period.

Jehoahaz and Israel’s Continuing Decline

In the northern kingdom of Israel, the death of King Jehu in 815 BCE marks the beginning of sole rulership for his son Jehoahaz. His reign unfolds against the backdrop of Israel’s diminished military and political power following catastrophic defeats by the Aramaean kingdom of Damascus under Hazael. Israel continues to suffer from the consequences of these military setbacks, facing severe territorial losses and reduced regional influence. Jehoahaz’s rule is characterized by efforts to stabilize a significantly weakened state, which struggles against ongoing external pressures and internal vulnerabilities.

Summary of the Era

The years 825–814 BCE witness profound political upheaval in the Near East, particularly marked by intensified fragmentation within Egypt. The rivalry among Egyptian rulers underscores the period's dynastic complexity and regional instability. Concurrently, Israel continues to endure significant political and military challenges under Jehoahaz, reflecting broader patterns of vulnerability and transition within the region. Collectively, these events highlight the ongoing reshaping of the Near Eastern political landscape, setting the stage for further developments in subsequent decades.

The Near East (813–802 BCE): Persistent Conflict and Dynastic Rivalries

Between 813 and 802 BCE, political fragmentation and military conflict continue to define the Near East, particularly in Egypt and Israel, shaping regional dynamics and altering alliances.

Egypt's Continuing Dynastic Rivalries

In Egypt, internal division persists and deepens. Shoshenq III maintains a tenuous hold over Lower Egypt from his stronghold in Memphis and the Delta, yet faces ongoing challenges from the rival Twenty-third Dynasty centered at Thebes. The claimant Pedubast I, asserting Libyan ancestry, continues to rule as Pharaoh in Upper Egypt, presiding over a complex network of alliances and rivalries.

Throughout this period, the descendants of Takelot II, notably Osorkon III, engage in fierce competition with both Shoshenq III and Pedubast I. Thebes, caught in the middle of these struggles, endures frequent political upheaval and periodic violence, highlighting the weakened and fragmented nature of Egyptian power during this phase of the Third Intermediate Period.

Israel under Pressure from Aram-Damascus

In the northern kingdom of Israel, King Jehoahaz struggles throughout his reign against the relentless aggression of Hazael, the powerful king of Aram-Damascus. Aramaean dominance severely restricts Israelite sovereignty, resulting in heavy territorial losses and deepening internal instability. Biblical accounts describe Jehoahaz’s rule as marked by constant military setbacks and diminished regional influence, reflecting the broader strategic ascendancy of Damascus in the region.

Jehoahaz’s efforts to defend and stabilize Israel yield little success. Consequently, Israel remains politically isolated and militarily weakened, struggling to maintain even its core territories against the encroaching Aramaeans.

Summary of the Era

The years 813–802 BCE in the Near East are characterized by persistent instability. Egypt continues to suffer intense dynastic rivalries, effectively fragmenting its political and territorial unity, while Israel, under Jehoahaz, endures continuous external threats and diminishing influence. This ongoing turbulence underscores the region’s fragility during this turbulent era, setting the stage for subsequent shifts in power and alliances.