MPV Commentary

After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple, he likely expected that restoring true worship and reviving faith in the land would lead to a period of peace and prosperity, as promised by God. However, his hopes were short-lived.

The brief interval of tranquility following his reforms was interrupted by Necho, king of Egypt, who came up to fight against Carchemish on the Euphrates River. This conflict was part of a long-standing struggle between Egypt and Assyria for control over Palestine. As a vassal of Assyria, Josiah felt obligated to support his liege lord's interests.

Necho had come by sea along the coast of Palestine, northwards, with the intention of transporting his troops across the northern parts of the country. Josiah, determined to oppose Necho's march, met him in the valley of Megiddo, also known as the plain of Esdraelon. This was a strategic location where Necho's army would have had to cross the country, making it an ideal place for Josiah to intercept them.

Necho informed Josiah that he had no intention of attacking Judah or Jerusalem and that his expedition was directed solely against Assyria, with God's express commission. However, commentators are divided on whether this was a genuine divine command or simply a pretext used by Necho to justify his actions. Regardless, Josiah did not sin in opposing Necho, as he could not have known the truth of Necho's declaration.

The two armies clashed, and Josiah was mortally wounded. He was taken out of his war chariot and placed in a second chariot, which would be more comfortable for him in his condition. The death of this good king was met with universal regret and lasting sorrow.

Jeremiah lamented the loss of Josiah, and his elegy has been preserved among the people. It is believed to have been a dirge composed by professional singers who sang it on public occasions, including funerals for notable individuals. The spot where the battle took place became known as Hadad-rimmon in the valley of Megiddo, and the lamentation for Josiah's death was so great that it eventually became a proverbial phrase to express any extraordinary sorrow (Zechariah 12:11).