Gedaliah
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Role: Governor over the remnant of Judah
- Family: Son of Ahikam, grandson of Shaphan
- Key Books: 2 Kings, Jeremiah
Biography
After Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem, he appointed Gedaliah, son of Ahikam, as governor over the poor remnant left in the land. Gedaliah settled at Mizpah and counseled the people to serve the king of Babylon and dwell in the land in peace, promising it would go well with them. Though warned of a plot, he trusted Ishmael son of Nethaniah, who treacherously slew him along with the Jews and Chaldeans who were with him.
Key Events
- Gedaliah appointed at Mizpah — set as governor over the remnant and the captains of the forces (2 Kings 25:22-24).
- Assassination of Gedaliah — slain by Ishmael son of Nethaniah at Mizpah (2 Kings 25:25; Jeremiah 41:1-3).
Relationships
- Jeremiah — the prophet committed to his care after Jerusalem’s fall
- Ishmael son of Nethaniah — of the royal seed, who murdered him
- Nebuchadnezzar — who appointed him governor
Important Verses
- 2 Kings 25:24 — Gedaliah urges the people to serve the Chaldeans and dwell in the land.
- Jeremiah 41:2 — Ishmael smites Gedaliah, whom the king had made governor.
Cross-References
Notes
His murder scattered the last remnant into Egypt, deepening Judah’s desolation despite a brief hope of stability after the exile began.