Civil War in Egypt Before Israel's Release (Book of Jasher)

According to the Book of Jasher, Egypt did experience internal conflict and civil strife before the Israelites were released from bondage. Here is the context:

Background Context

The Book of Jasher (Chapter 79-81) describes a period of significant turmoil in Egypt during the time of the plagues and just before the Exodus.

Key Events Supporting Civil Conflict

Division Among Egyptians: As the plagues intensified, there was growing division between Pharaoh's officials and the Egyptian people. Many Egyptians wanted to release the Israelites to stop the devastating plagues, while Pharaoh and his close advisors remained hardened.
Rebellion of Egyptian Nobles: Jasher 80:3-4 indicates that some Egyptian nobles and officials began to rebel against Pharaoh's decisions, recognizing that his stubbornness was destroying Egypt. They pleaded with him to let the Israelites go.
Internal Strife During the Plagues: The plagues created chaos and disorder throughout Egypt. Different factions emerged - some blamed Pharaoh for the calamities, while others blamed the Israelites. This created internal conflict and social breakdown.
Economic and Social Collapse: The Book of Jasher describes how the plagues led to economic devastation, which caused fighting among Egyptians over resources, food, and survival.

Specific Jasher References

Jasher 79:45-50: Describes how Egyptian servants and officials confronted Pharaoh, demanding he release the Israelites. There was great anger and contention in Pharaoh's court.

Jasher 80:1-4: Records the division between Pharaoh's counselors, with some advising release of Israel while others advised continued bondage, creating political turmoil.

Jasher 81:1-3: Mentions that after the plague of darkness, there was such fear and confusion that Egyptians turned against each other, not knowing who was their enemy.

Conclusion

While the Book of Jasher doesn't describe a formal "civil war" in the modern sense, it does portray significant internal conflict, political division, and social breakdown in Egypt before Israel's release. The cumulative effect of the plagues created conditions where Egyptians were divided against themselves, with different factions holding opposing views on how to handle the Israelite situation. This internal strife contributed to Pharaoh's eventual decision to let the people go.