A Modern Pharaoh?

Egypt’s democratically elected, but Islamic Brotherhood-backed president, Mohammad Mursi, has brought about drastic changes since his election.  He “has issued a declaration banning challenges to his decrees, laws, and decisions” (BBC, November 22, 2012).  He has also declared that “no court can dissolve the constituent assembly, which is drawing up a new constitution” (ibid.).  Apparently emboldened by his recent success brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, President Mursi recently fired the chief Egyptian prosecutor, and “ordered the retrial of people accused of attacking protesters when ex-President Mubarak held office” (ibid.).

Opposition groups have stated that the legitimacy of the Egyptian legal system is now in question.  The leader of the Egyptian opposition, Mohammed El Baradei, “accused Mr. Mursi of acting like a ‘new pharaoh’” (ibid.). 

Bible prophecy indicates that Egypt will continue to be a “hot spot” until shortly before the return of Christ.  Daniel prophesied, “At the time of the end” a “King of the South”—probably a federation of radical Arab nations—will arise to confront a European Beast power.  However, this European Beast power, or “King of the North,” will ultimately attack the King of the South and overrun Egypt, Libya and Ethiopia (Daniel 11:40-43).  In light of these prophecies, the term “new Pharaoh” may take on real meaning.  Time will tell whether Mr. Mursi will fulfill this role. 

For more information on these upcoming events, be sure to review our informative booklet The Middle East in Prophecy.