Egypt

Egypt was a prominent ancient civilization in northeastern Africa, concentrated along the lower reaches of the Nile River. In the Bible, Egypt is first mentioned as the place Abraham journeyed during a famine in Canaan (Genesis 12:10). Later, Joseph was sold into slavery in Egypt but rose to power as a trusted official of Pharaoh. During a famine, Israel (or 'Jacob') and his family settled in Egypt with Joseph.

After generations passed, the Israelites were enslaved by the Egyptians (Exodus 1:8-14). God called Moses to deliver His people from bondage. After Pharaoh refused to free the Israelites, God sent ten plagues upon Egypt (Exodus 7-12). Finally, Pharaoh relented and the Israelites left in the Exodus. At the Red Sea, God miraculously allowed the Israelites to cross on dry ground but destroyed the pursuing Egyptian army (Exodus 14).

Egypt is often used in the Bible as a symbol of bondage and oppression. The prophets warned against trusting in Egypt's power instead of God (Isaiah 30:1-3, 31:1). Yet Egypt was also a place of refuge, as when Mary, Joseph and Jesus fled there to escape Herod (Matthew 2:13-15).