The Chronology of Daniel 1:1, by Dave Matson

[Stefan]

Hello, I need some help with a Biblical reference from one of the articles. In Dave Matson's article "The Chronology of Daniel 1:1", he states that there is a reference in the Bible of Nebuchadnezzar invading Egypt in 567 B.C., only to return home empty handed. Where is this reference located in the Bible?

I'm currently in a debate with a few of my Christian friends on whether or not Nebuchadnezzar every really conquered Egypt like Ezekiel said he would (obviously, I'm on the side that says he didn't). This information could help me out a lot. Thanks.

Stefan

[-DM-]

Note: The article in question, The Chronology of Daniel 1:1 (http://www.infidels.org/library/magazines/tsr/2001/4/014dan.html) by Dave Matson (http://www.infidels.org/library/modern/dave_matson/index.shtml) appeared in the July/August 2001 issue of Skeptical Review (http://www.infidels.org/library/magazines/tsr/2001/4/index.shtml) (TSR), edited by Farrell Till (http://www.infidels.org/library/modern/farrell_till/index.shtml). Although The Secular Web hosts TSR, we are not responsible for its content. Nevertheless, I have contacted both Dave Matson and Farrell Till. Although there are no guarantees, perhaps one or both will be able to help you out here.

Regards,
-DM-

[Dave Matson]

I'm afraid that I confused the matter by combining biblical verse with historical results in one sentence, thus giving the impression that the Bible said that Nebuchadnezzar failed to take Egypt.

Several states revolted when the opportunity seemed right, including Tyre and Judah. Nebuchadnezzar soon responded; in 585 BCE he laid seige to Tyre and Jerusalem. Jerusalem was conquered in 586 BCE, but Tyre held out for 13 years. In 573 BCE (the exact years here depend on the system of counting) the siege was lifted. Apparently, a negotiated settlement that saved face for Nebuchadnezzar was arrived at, allowing Tyre to get back to business with some restrictions.

Ezekiel 26:7 boasted as to how God was bringing the world's most powerful king, Nebuchadnezzar, to destroy Tyre. Apparently, that was written just before the attack or during the siege, when everyone thought that Tyre would be wiped out. Nebuchadnezzar's failure to conquer Tyre must have been very embarrassing for Ezekiel, so some revisionist history was necessary. Thus, Ezekiel 29:18 explains that God would give Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar as payment, because he had gotten nothing from Tyre (Ezekiel 29:19-20). But, it seems that Ezekiel misjudged that outcome as well. History knows of a battle between Nebuchadnezzar and Egypt in 568/567, but Nebuchadnezzar failed to take Egypt. Five or six years later, Nebuchadnezzar died.

[Edited only to delete e-mail address. We prefer responses to Feedback. -DM-]

[Stefan]

Ah, I see. Well, thanks anyway.