Attacks on Jerusalem and Affects on The Jewish People
Along with the Egyptians, Judah, which had previously submitted itself
to the Chaldeans, revolted, which was led by King Jehoiakim. In 597
Bce. Nebuchanezzar marched on Judah's largest city, Jerusalem. King
Jehoiakim perished before his prized city was captured. After a lengthy
seige, in 586 Bce. Jerusalem was burned, and all of its leading citizens
were exiled into Babylon. They were made slave, however, they did have rights.
They were allowed to choose their occupation and they were allowed mingle
freely in Babylon, yet, they were not allowed to worship their god or return
to Jerusalem.