Old Testament
2 Kings 25:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After that, all the people — from the least to the greatest — along with the military commanders, fled to Egypt because they were terrified of the Chaldeans.
Compare translations
And all the people, both small and great, and the captains of the armies, arose, and came to Egypt: for they were afraid of the Chaldees.
What 2 Kings 25:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment of crisis, the people of Jerusalem, regardless of their status, made a desperate choice to flee to Egypt. They were overwhelmed by fear of the Chaldeans, who had conquered their city and posed a significant threat. This flight illustrates how fear can drive people to abandon their homes and seek safety elsewhere. The military leaders, who typically would protect their people, also chose to escape, highlighting the severity of the situation. Their decision reflects a loss of hope and a sense of helplessness in the face of overwhelming odds. This event serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of human life and the instinct to survive, even when it means leaving everything behind. It also raises questions about trust and where we seek refuge in times of trouble. Ultimately, it shows that fear can unite people in their flight, but it can also lead to difficult choices that impact their future. The story invites us to consider our own responses to fear and uncertainty.
How to apply 2 Kings 25:26 to your life
When faced with fear, we often seek safety in familiar places or people. It's important to recognize our instincts and the choices we make under pressure. Instead of fleeing, we can find strength in community and support. Reflect on where you turn in times of crisis and consider healthier options for coping with fear and uncertainty. Trust can be built in those moments of vulnerability, leading to resilience and hope for the future.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Kings 25:26
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Kings 25:26
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 25:26 mean?
2 Kings 25:26 describes the desperate flight of the people of Jerusalem to Egypt after the Chaldeans conquered their city. It highlights their fear and loss of hope, showing how even military leaders chose to escape rather than stay and fight.
What is the significance of fleeing to Egypt in 2 Kings 25:26?
Fleeing to Egypt in 2 Kings 25:26 signifies a search for safety and refuge in a time of crisis. It illustrates the instinct to seek protection in familiar places when faced with overwhelming fear and uncertainty.
What does the phrase 'terrified of the Chaldeans' mean in 2 Kings 25:26?
The phrase 'terrified of the Chaldeans' in 2 Kings 25:26 indicates the deep fear and panic experienced by the people of Jerusalem after their defeat. This fear drove them to abandon their homes and seek safety elsewhere.
How does 2 Kings 25:26 relate to themes of fear and survival?
2 Kings 25:26 relates to themes of fear and survival by showing how the people of Jerusalem, overwhelmed by terror, chose to abandon their city in search of safety. It illustrates the lengths people will go to when faced with life-threatening situations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.