“It came to pass in the thirty-seventh year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah … that Evil-Merodach king of Babylon, in the year that he began to reign, released Jehoiachin king of Judah from prison” (2 Kings 25:27).
Babylon, the shining capital of the neo-Babylonian Empire in Nebuchadnezzar’s day and beyond, was the largest city in the world at one point and probably the most beautiful. Covering over 2,000 acres, it contained magnificent gardens, grand statues, stunning architecture, and dazzling artwork, including enamelled tiles and frescoes that graced its walls, buildings, and terraces.
Imprisoned as a teenager, King Jehoiachin probably didn’t have much opportunity to see these or many of the other wondrous sights of Babylon. Perhaps he saw the spectacular Ishtar Gate, or another similar entrance, as his captors brought him into the city to incarcerate him. Then, for 37 long years, a prison was his home. And there he remained for as long as Nebuchadnezzar lived. But after the Chaldean ruler’s death, his son took pity on Jehoiachin. Not only did Evil-Merodach release him from his confinement, but he spoke kindly to Jehoiachin and even invited the former monarch to eat at his table on a regular basis. He gave the Israelite king a place of honour in the palace.
What was behind these acts of kindness? The Bible doesn’t fully answer this question. Some speculate that Daniel, who also had been taken captive but had achieved a high, respected position in the government, used his influence to help Jehoiachin.
Jehoiachin’s three-month reign at the age of 18 had not gone well. The Bible says that he “did evil in the sight of the Lord” (2 Kings 24:9), and Nebuchadnezzar’s invasion of Jerusalem had abruptly ended his reign. While we don’t know for certain, some scholars believe it’s likely that Jehoiachin turned to God and repented of his sins while in prison. It seems like a reasonable theory; after all, 37 years in isolation gives one a long time to con- sider life choices. If he did indeed repent, then he most certainly learned that God’s grace can turn what appears to be a total personal disaster into an incalculable blessing.
Dear God, even in difficult times You are working behind the scenes for my benefit. Thank You!
