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Dive into the history of Nebuchadnezzar II and Evil-Merodach, the influential kings of Babylon. Uncover Nebuchadnezzar’s achievements and the brief but impactful reign of his son. This article sheds light on their legacy through biblical references and archaeological discoveries, highlighting their roles in shaping ancient Near Eastern history.
Introduction
Nebuchadnezzar II, also known as Nebuchadrezzar, was the second ruler of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. His name, derived from Akkadian, means “O Nebo, Protect the Heir!” He was the son of Nabopolassar and the father of Awil-Marduk, commonly known as Evil-merodach, who succeeded him. Nebuchadnezzar’s reign lasted 43 years (605-562 B.C.E.), a period that included his episode of insanity where he lived like a wild animal, as detailed in the Book of Daniel (Daniel 4:31-33). Historians distinguish him as Nebuchadnezzar II to separate him from an earlier ruler of the same name from the Isin dynasty.
Military Campaigns and Reign
Cuneiform inscriptions provide additional historical context to Nebuchadnezzar’s life. In the 19th year of his father Nabopolassar’s reign, both he and his son Nebuchadnezzar, then crown prince, mobilized their armies. They operated independently, and after Nabopolassar returned to Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar continued his military campaigns in mountainous regions, eventually returning to Babylon with significant spoils. During the 21st year of Nabopolassar’s reign, Nebuchadnezzar led the Babylonian army to a decisive victory over the Egyptians at Carchemish in 605 B.C.E., aligning with the fourth year of King Jehoiakim of Judah (Jeremiah 46:2).
Early Years of Nebuchadnezzar chronicle, dated 590 BCE (ABC 05)
Ascension to Power
Upon receiving news of his father’s death, Nebuchadnezzar returned to Babylon and ascended the throne in Elul (August-September), marking the beginning of his reign. In the ensuing year, he campaigned through Hattu (the historical name for a region), taking substantial plunder back to Babylon in January-February 604 B.C.E. (Assyrian and Babylonian Chronicles, A. K. Grayson, 1975, p. 100). Throughout the first four years of his kingship, Nebuchadnezzar conducted several campaigns in Hattu. In his fourth year, he turned his attention to Egypt, where both armies suffered significant losses in the ensuing battles. During this period, he also made Jehoiakim, King of Judah, his vassal (2 Kings 24:1).
Conquest of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II
Rebellion and Siege
The rebellion of Judean King Jehoiakim against Nebuchadnezzar led to a Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. During this time, Jehoiakim passed away, and his son Jehoiachin took the throne. However, Jehoiachin’s rule was short-lived, lasting only three months and ten days. He surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar in Adar (February-March) of Nebuchadnezzar’s seventh year as king (ending in Nisan 598/7 B.C.E.), as noted in the Babylonian Chronicles. An inscription in the British Museum confirms this: “The seventh year: In Kislev the king of Akkad assembled his army, marched to Hattu, besieged the city of Judah, and on the second day of Adar captured the city and its king Jehoiachin. He installed Zedekiah as the new king and took a vast tribute back to Babylon.” (Assyrian and Babylonian Chronicles, A. K. Grayson, 1975, p. 102). Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin, along with other members of the royal family, court officials, craftsmen, and warriors, into exile in Babylon. He appointed Jehoiachin’s uncle Mattaniah as the new king of Judah, renaming him Zedekiah (2 Kings 24:11-17; 2 Chronicles 36:5-10).
Zedekiah’s Rebellion and the Fall of Jerusalem
Later, Zedekiah defied Nebuchadnezzar by forming an alliance with Egypt (Ezekiel 17:15; Jeremiah 27:11-14). This led to the Babylonians besieging Jerusalem again on the 10th day of Tebeth (December-January) in the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign (2 Kings 24:20; 25:1; 2 Chronicles 36:13). However, when Pharaoh’s army approached, the Babylonians temporarily lifted the siege (Jeremiah 37:5). Once the Egyptian forces retreated, the Babylonians resumed their siege (Jeremiah 37:7-10).
“Nebuchadnezzar, King of Justice.” Once in power, Nebuchadnezzar was presented as a typical Babylonian monarch; wise, pious, just, and strong. Texts such as this clay tablet, extol his greatness as a man and ruler. From Babylon, Iraq.
Jerusalem’s Fall and Zedekiah’s Fate
The city finally fell on the 9th day of Tammuz (June-July) in 586 B.C.E., during the 11th year of Zedekiah’s rule, which was Nebuchadnezzar’s 18th or 19th year as king, depending on the start of the count. Zedekiah and his men tried to escape but were captured near Jericho. Nebuchadnezzar, who was in Riblah in the land of Hamath, ordered the execution of Zedekiah’s sons and blinded Zedekiah before taking him to Babylon as a prisoner.
Aftermath of the Conquest
Nebuzaradan, Nebuchadnezzar’s chief guard, managed the post-conquest affairs. This included burning the temple and the houses in Jerusalem, deciding the fate of the temple utensils, and overseeing the deportation of captives. Gedaliah, appointed by Nebuchadnezzar, governed those who remained in the land (2 Kings 25:1-22; 2 Chronicles 36:17-20; Jeremiah 52:1-27, 29).
Nebuchadnezzar’s Vision and Its Interpretation
Context of the Dream
In the book of Daniel, it is mentioned that Nebuchadnezzar experienced a significant dream in what is referred to as “the second year” of his reign. This is likely counted from the destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C.E., which would place the dream in his 20th year as king. (Daniel 2:1). The dream featured an immense image with a golden head.
Failure of Nebuchadnezzar’s Advisors
The king’s usual advisors, including magicians, conjurers, and Chaldeans, were unable to interpret the dream. This inability to provide an explanation for the king’s dream created a significant challenge in the royal court.
Daniel’s Role
Daniel, a Jewish prophet in captivity, successfully interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. His interpretation not only resolved the king’s distress but also demonstrated the power and wisdom of Daniel’s God. Nebuchadnezzar recognized this and declared Daniel’s God as “a God of gods and a Lord of kings and a Revealer of secrets.”
Reward and Recognition
Impressed by Daniel’s abilities, Nebuchadnezzar appointed him as “ruler over all the jurisdictional district of Babylon and the chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon.” This was a significant elevation for Daniel, marking him as a key figure in the Babylonian kingdom. Additionally, Daniel’s three companions—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—were also given administrative positions, reflecting the king’s gratitude and recognition of their association with Daniel. (Daniel 2).
Further Exiles of Jews Under Nebuchadnezzar
Subsequent Exile
Approximately three years after the significant exile, in the 23rd year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, another group of Jews was taken into captivity (Jeremiah 52:30). This later exile likely included Jews who had initially escaped to neighboring regions but were later caught as the Babylonians expanded their conquests.
Historical Insights from Josephus
The Jewish historian Josephus provides additional context to this event. He writes that this happened in the fifth year following the destruction of Jerusalem, aligning with Nebuchadnezzar’s 23rd year as king. During this time, Nebuchadnezzar campaigned against Coele-Syria and subsequently turned his attention to the Moabites and the Ammonites, bringing these nations under his control.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Campaign in Egypt
Josephus further details that Nebuchadnezzar then invaded Egypt. In this campaign, he overthrew the reigning Egyptian king, appointed a new ruler, and captured Jews living in Egypt. These captives were then taken to Babylon, adding to the number of exiled Jews. This account from Josephus, found in “Jewish Antiquities” (X, 181, 182 [ix, 7]), offers a broader picture of Nebuchadnezzar’s military expansions and the resulting impact on the Jewish population during his reign.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Siege of Tyre
Beginning of the Siege
After the fall of Jerusalem in 587 B.C.E., Nebuchadnezzar initiated a siege against the city of Tyre. This siege was a significant military endeavor, as indicated by the physical toll it took on his soldiers.
Conditions of the Siege
The conditions of the siege were harsh. The soldiers’ heads became bald from the constant friction of their helmets, and their shoulders were worn from carrying materials used in constructing siege works. These details highlight the grueling nature of the siege and the effort put forth by Nebuchadnezzar’s army.
Lack of Immediate Reward
Despite his efforts in besieging Tyre, Nebuchadnezzar did not immediately receive tangible rewards or “wages” for his role as an instrument of Jehovah’s judgment upon the city. This is noted in the Biblical account in Ezekiel 26:7-11 and 29:17-20.
Promise of Compensation
As compensation for his efforts and lack of immediate reward, it was prophesied that Nebuchadnezzar would be given the wealth of Egypt. This promise served as a form of delayed compensation for his role in the divine plan.
Historical Evidence of Campaign Against Egypt
A fragmentary Babylonian text, dated to Nebuchadnezzar’s 37th year (568 B.C.E.), makes a mention of a campaign against Egypt. This reference, found in “Ancient Near Eastern Texts” edited by J. Pritchard (1974, p. 308), suggests Nebuchadnezzar’s military engagement with Egypt. However, it remains unclear whether this text refers to the initial conquest of Egypt or a subsequent military action by Nebuchadnezzar.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon as depicted by Ferdinand Knab in 1886. According to tradition, the gardens were constructed by Nebuchadnezzar for his wife, Amytis of Babylon, so that she would feel less homesick.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Architectural Achievements
Military Success and Building Endeavors
Nebuchadnezzar, known for his military conquests that expanded the Babylonian Empire as prophesied (Jeremiah 47-49), was also renowned for his significant building projects. In an effort to comfort his homesick Median queen, he is said to have constructed the Hanging Gardens, considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Cuneiform Inscriptions and Construction Efforts
Numerous cuneiform inscriptions attributed to Nebuchadnezzar detail his extensive construction work, including the building of temples, palaces, and fortifications. One such inscription describes his efforts to fortify Babylon against enemies: “I am Nebuchadrezzar, King of Babylon, restorer of Esagila and Ezida, son of Nabopolassar. To protect Esagila from powerful enemies, I constructed a strong wall on Babylon’s east side, dug a moat to the water level, and saw that my father’s wall was too small. I built a mighty wall with bitumen and brick, unmovable like a mountain, connecting it with my father’s wall, laying its foundations deep and raising its top high. To reinforce it, I added a third wall, laying its foundation deep to serve as a protective wall.” (Archaeology and the Bible, G. Barton, 1949, pp. 478, 479).
Boastful Pride and Divine Humbling
This extensive building work aligns with Nebuchadnezzar’s boast just before his period of insanity: “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as my royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30). However, after experiencing a divinely-sent dream symbolized by a chopped-down tree and losing his reasoning abilities, Nebuchadnezzar ultimately recognized Jehovah’s power to humble the proud (Daniel 4:37).
Nebuchadnezzar’s Devotion to Religion
Religious Zeal in Temple Building
Nebuchadnezzar was known for his deep religious commitment, demonstrated by his efforts in constructing and enhancing the temples of various Babylonian gods. His dedication was especially evident in his worship of Marduk, the principal deity of Babylon.
Nebuchadnezzar attributed his military triumphs to Marduk. He brought war trophies, including sacred vessels from Jehovah’s temple, to Marduk’s temple as offerings. He expressed his devotion in an inscription: “For the glory of exalted MERODACH, I have built a house… May it hold the abundant tributes from kings and peoples worldwide!” (Records of the Past: Assyrian and Egyptian Monuments, London, 1875, Vol. V, p. 135).
The Gold Statue in Dura
Nebuchadnezzar’s religious efforts included erecting a gold statue in the Plain of Dura, possibly in honor of Marduk. This statue might have been intended to unify the empire under a common religious practice. When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship the statue, even after a second chance, an infuriated Nebuchadnezzar ordered them to be cast into a furnace heated to extreme temperatures. However, their miraculous survival, attributed to Jehovah’s intervention, led Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge that no other god could deliver in such a manner (Daniel 3).
Use of Divination in Military Strategy
Nebuchadnezzar also heavily relied on divination for his military strategies. Ezekiel’s prophecy illustrates this, showing the Babylonian king using divination to decide whether to attack Rabbah of Ammon or Jerusalem (Ezekiel 21:18-23).
The famous Ishtar Gate, one of the gates to Babylon in the time of Nebuchadnezzar II.
Nebuchadnezzar II’s Legacy in Texts and Inscriptions
Expansion and Influence of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar II, who reigned from 605 to 562 BC, significantly expanded the Babylonian Empire. His reign is well-documented in numerous ancient texts and inscriptions.
Larsa Inscription
An important inscription found on clay cylinders and bricks in Larsa, a city in Sumer south of Babylon, highlights Nebuchadnezzar’s religious devotion and his role in reconstructing temples. The inscription reads: “Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, the humble, submissive, and pious worshiper of the lord of lords, was tasked by Marduk to restore a temple. He is the legitimate heir of Nabopolassar, king of Babylon.” (COS 2:309). This text emphasizes Nebuchadnezzar’s dedication to the gods and his lineage.
A cylinder inscription describing how Nebuchadnezzar II repaired a temple that had fallen into disrepair.
Reign of Evil-Merodach
Evil-Merodach (Awel-Marduk in Akkadian), Nebuchadnezzar’s son, succeeded him in 562 BC but only ruled for two years. His name, meaning “man of Marduk,” reflects the central role of the god Marduk in Babylon. Evil-merodach’s short reign left little time for military campaigns, resulting in limited historical records.
Artifacts from Evil-merodach’s Reign
Despite the brevity of his reign, several vase fragments and contract tablets from his time have been discovered. These artifacts reference Evil-merodach and provide insight into his rule.
Nabonidus’s Inscription
An inscription about Nabonidus, the succeeding king, briefly mentions Evil-merodach. It describes how Evil-merodach and Labashi-Marduk, son of Neriglissar, gathered troops but eventually dispersed. (ANET, 309). This note, although short, provides a glimpse into the political climate following Nebuchadnezzar’s death.
Evil-Merodach: The Babylonian King Who Showed Kindness
Meaning of Name and Succession
Evil-Merodach, whose name means “Worshiper of Marduk” in Babylonian, ascended to the Babylonian throne in 562 B.C.E., succeeding Nebuchadnezzar.
Act of Kindness to Jehoiachin
In his inaugural year as king, Evil-Merodach demonstrated compassion by releasing Jehoiachin, the king of Judah, from prison. This event occurred in the 37th year of Jehoiachin’s exile in Babylon. Evil-Merodach not only freed Jehoiachin but also elevated his status above that of other captive kings in Babylon (2 Kings 25:27-30; Jeremiah 52:31-34). According to the historian Josephus, Evil-Merodach considered Jehoiachin a close friend.
Archaeological Evidence
Archaeological discoveries provide additional information about Evil-Merodach (also known as Awil-Marduk or Amil-Marduk). An inscription on a vase found near Susa, for example, declares: “Palace of Amil-Marduk, King of Babylon, son of Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon.” (Mémoires de la mission archéologique de Susiane, by V. Scheil, Paris, 1913, Vol. XIV).
Historical Accounts of Reign and Death
The ancient historian Berossus, as quoted by Josephus, notes that Evil-Merodach’s reign lasted two years. Josephus, however, credits him with an 18-year reign. It is believed that Evil-Merodach was assassinated as part of a conspiracy, leading to his successor, Neriglissar (Nergal-sharezer), taking the throne. However, there is no solid confirmation of these accounts.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
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