The Hebrew name Parʻôh Chophraʻ, represented by H6548, refers to Pharaoh-hophra, an Egyptian king. This specific name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking a singular but significant event in the prophetic record. Its sole appearance is tied to a declaration of divine judgment.
In the biblical narrative, H6548 is mentioned in a direct prophecy from the LORD. God announces that He will give H5414 Pharaoh-hophra, the king H4428 of Egypt H4714, into the hand H3027 of his enemies H341 and those who seek H1245 his life H5315. This event is presented as a parallel to the fate of another monarch, with God stating He would do this "as I gave Zedekiah king of Judah into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon" Jeremiah 44:30.
The context of this prophecy involves several key figures and concepts that illuminate its meaning:
- H4428 melek (a king): This term is central to the passage, identifying the three rulers involved: Pharaoh-hophra, Zedekiah, and Nebuchadrezzar. The ultimate authority, however, belongs to God, who is prophesied to one day be king over all the earth Zechariah 14:9.
- H6667 Tsidqîyâh (Zedekiah): The king of Judah whose downfall serves as the precedent for Pharaoh-hophra's judgment. The Lord states He will deliver Zedekiah into the hand of his enemies Jeremiah 21:7.
- H5019 Nᵉbûwkadneʼtstsar (Nebuchadnezzar): The king of Babylon who acted as the instrument of God's judgment against Zedekiah. In other prophecies, the Lord refers to Nebuchadrezzar as "my servant" Jeremiah 25:9, indicating his role in God's sovereign plan.
The theological weight of H6548 is derived entirely from its single, powerful context. It serves as a specific case study for broader divine principles.
- Sovereignty Over Nations: The prophecy demonstrates the LORD's H3068 absolute authority over all earthly rulers, regardless of their power or status. He is the one who will give H5414 the king of Egypt into the hand of his enemies Jeremiah 44:30.
- A Pattern of Judgment: By explicitly linking the fate of Pharaoh-hophra to the already-fulfilled judgment on Zedekiah H6667, the prophecy establishes a pattern. It shows that God's justice is consistent and His word is reliable.
- Divine Use of Human Agents: The passage underscores that God uses human kings and their enemies to carry out His will. The downfall of both Pharaoh-hophra and Zedekiah at the hands of their respective enemies H341 illustrates that historical events are under divine control.
In summary, while Parʻôh Chophraʻ H6548 is mentioned only once, its appearance is not incidental. The name marks a specific historical figure whose decreed fate serves as a profound declaration of God's sovereignty. It illustrates that no earthly king is beyond the reach of God's judgment and that His prophetic word, which sets rulers up and brings them down, is certain to be fulfilled.
TRV