The worst event in Israel's history was the destruction of the temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC. The general in charge of that destruction was Nebuchadnezzar, a king who became an emblem of all those who would elevate themselves against God. Unlike other rulers, we get an up-close look at Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel. There we see God humbling and chastening him for his pride and brutality.
