Genesis 14:8

KJV

And there went out the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (the same [is] Zoar;) and they joined battle with them in the vale of Siddim;

KJV (with Strong's)

And there went out {H3318} the king {H4428} of Sodom {H5467}, and the king {H4428} of Gomorrah {H6017}, and the king {H4428} of Admah {H126}, and the king {H4428} of Zeboiim {H6636}, and the king {H4428} of Bela {H1106}(the same {H1931} is Zoar {H6820};) and they joined {H6186} battle {H4421} with them in the vale {H6010} of Siddim {H7708};

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the kings of S'dom, 'Amora, Admah, Tzvoyim and Bela (that is, Tzo'ar) came out and arrayed themselves for battle in the Siddim Valley

Berean Standard Bible

Then the king of Sodom, the king of Gomorrah, the king of Admah, the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar) marched out and arrayed themselves for battle in the Valley of Siddim

American Standard Version

And there went out the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (the same is Zoar); and they set the battle in array against them in the vale of Siddim;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The formation of a crucial defensive alliance among five local kings—those of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela (identified as Zoar)—who united to confront the formidable invading Mesopotamian coalition. This verse sets the immediate geographical and political stage for a pivotal conflict in the ancient Near East, specifically naming the rulers and the strategic battleground, the Vale of Siddim, thereby leading directly to events that profoundly impact Lot, Abraham's nephew, and subsequently trigger Abraham's heroic intervention.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "The First War in the Bible") presents the first detailed account of a major military conflict in the biblical narrative, serving as a crucial interlude within the patriarchal history of Abraham. Prior to [Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle"), the text establishes the geopolitical backdrop: for twelve years, the kings of the "Cities of the Plain" (Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela/Zoar) had been vassals to Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allied Mesopotamian rulers. In the thirteenth year, these local kings rebelled, setting the stage for the punitive expedition described in the preceding verses. Verse 8 marks the local kings' proactive decision to confront their overlords, leading directly to the battle whose outcome results in Lot's capture, which in turn precipitates [Abram's decisive intervention](/genesis/14-14 "Abram's Rescue of Lot") and his subsequent encounter with the enigmatic [Melchizedek](/genesis/14-18 "Melchizedek, King of Salem and Priest of God Most High").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was characterized by a mosaic of city-states, each with its own local ruler, often referred to as "king" (Hebrew: _melek_). These city-states frequently formed alliances or became vassals to larger, more powerful empires, paying tribute for protection or to avoid conquest. Rebellion against an overlord was a common catalyst for punitive military campaigns, as seen here with Chedorlaomer's expedition. The "Cities of the Plain" were strategically located in the fertile Jordan Valley, a region known for its agricultural wealth and access to trade routes. The mention of the [Vale of Siddim](/genesis/14-3 "The Vale of Siddim - Location of the Battle") as the battleground is significant; as [Genesis 14:10](/genesis/14-10 "The Slimepits in the Vale of Siddim") later reveals, it was full of "slimepits" (bitumen or tar pits), which would prove to be a treacherous natural hazard for the fleeing armies, highlighting the practical realities of ancient warfare and geography.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within [Genesis](/genesis "The Book of Genesis"). It underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty** operating even amidst human geopolitical conflicts, as this seemingly secular war ultimately serves God's purposes in the life of Abraham and his lineage. It introduces the **moral decay of the Cities of the Plain** through their association with rebellion and their later infamous destruction, foreshadowing the divine judgment detailed in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"). Furthermore, the conflict sets the **stage for Abraham's faith and courage**, providing the context for him to demonstrate his commitment to family and justice, thereby solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in God's redemptive plan. The detailed geographical and political descriptions also highlight the **historical verisimilitude** of the biblical narrative, grounding its theological truths in a tangible ancient world.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle") provides a succinct yet impactful account of the unified front presented by the kings of the Jordan Valley. The specific identification of each king and their cities underscores the gravity and scale of the impending conflict, highlighting a crucial moment of resistance.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **went out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This verb (H3318) signifies a proactive and deliberate departure, often with a purpose such as war or a mission. Here, it indicates that the kings of the plain were not merely reacting defensively within their cities but actively chose to sally forth and engage the invading forces on open ground, demonstrating a calculated, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, military strategy.
* **king (Hebrew, _melek'_):** The term (H4428) denotes a monarch or ruler. In the context of the ancient Near East, these "kings" were typically rulers of city-states, exercising authority over a limited territory and its inhabitants. The repeated mention of "the king of" emphasizes the collective, organized nature of this local alliance against the foreign invaders.
* **joined (Hebrew, _ʻârak'_):** This root (H6186) means "to set in a row," "arrange," or "put in order." When used in a military context, as it is here in conjunction with "battle," it specifically refers to "setting the battle in array" or "preparing for battle." It conveys the organized deployment of forces, indicating a formal and intentional engagement rather than a chaotic skirmish.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there went out the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (the same [is] Zoar;)"**: This initial clause meticulously lists the five allied kings and their respective city-states. The verb "went out" (Hebrew: _yâtsâʼ_) implies a deliberate, organized movement from their fortified cities to meet the enemy. The parenthetical note "(the same [is] Zoar;)" clarifies the identity of Bela, a city that will later play a unique role in the narrative of divine judgment, distinguishing it from the other cities of the plain. This enumeration underscores the formation of a united front, highlighting the regional political landscape and the collective response to the Mesopotamian invasion.
* **"and they joined battle with them in the vale of Siddim;"**: This second clause describes the decisive action taken by the allied kings: they "joined battle" (Hebrew: _ʻârak milchâmâh_), meaning they arrayed themselves for combat and engaged the opposing forces. The specific location, the "vale of Siddim," is crucial. This valley, later described as being full of bitumen pits in [Genesis 14:10](/genesis/14-10 "The Slimepits in the Vale of Siddim"), served as the chosen field of engagement, a strategic yet treacherous terrain that would significantly influence the battle's outcome. This detail grounds the narrative in a specific geographical reality, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict and its consequences.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. **Repetition** of the phrase "the king of" for each city emphasizes the unified, yet distinct, leadership of the five allied city-states, creating a rhythmic and formal tone that highlights the gravity of the alliance. The precise naming of each city and its king, along with the specific geographical location ("the vale of Siddim"), serves as an example of **Geographical and Onomastic Specificity**, lending a sense of historical verisimilitude and grounding the narrative in a tangible ancient world. Furthermore, the mention of Bela as "the same [is] Zoar" functions as a subtle **Foreshadowing**, hinting at Zoar's unique destiny and its eventual sparing from the divine destruction that would later befall Sodom and Gomorrah, thereby adding a layer of dramatic irony for the reader familiar with the broader Genesis narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While [Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle") describes a seemingly secular military event, it is deeply embedded within God's unfolding redemptive plan, demonstrating His providential oversight even in the midst of human conflict and geopolitical maneuvering. The rebellion of these kings, particularly those of Sodom and Gomorrah, against an earthly overlord subtly introduces their character before their more infamous portrayal as centers of grave sin, establishing a pattern of defiance that extends beyond political subjugation to moral and spiritual rebellion against God Himself. This war, leading to Lot's capture, serves as a divine catalyst, forcing Abraham out of his settled life to act decisively, thereby providing a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate faith, courage, and commitment to his family, and ultimately setting the stage for his encounter with Melchizedek, a pivotal moment in the unfolding covenant narrative.

* [Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah")
* [Hebrews 7:1-3](/hebrews/7-1-3 "Melchizedek, a Type of Christ")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle"), though a brief account of ancient warfare, offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of human actions and divine providence. It reminds us that even in the chaos and ambition of human conflicts, God's sovereign hand is at work, orchestrating events to fulfill His greater purposes. The decision of these kings to "go out" and "join battle" reflects human agency and strategic choice, yet the ultimate outcome and its subsequent impact on Abraham's life reveal a divine narrative unfolding. This passage encourages us to look beyond immediate circumstances and recognize that God can use seemingly mundane or even tragic events to advance His redemptive plan. For believers today, it underscores the truth that our lives, our struggles, and even the broader geopolitical landscape are not outside of God's watchful care, and He is continually working all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, often in ways we cannot immediately discern.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed naming of kings and cities in this verse highlight the historical reality of the biblical narrative, and what significance does this hold for our faith?**
* **In what ways does this seemingly secular battle foreshadow later divine judgments or interventions in the biblical narrative?**
* **How can we discern God's providential hand at work in the seemingly chaotic or challenging events of our own lives or in the world today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "Vale of Siddim" in this battle?**

Answer: The "Vale of Siddim" was strategically crucial because, as [Genesis 14:10](/genesis/14-10 "The Slimepits in the Vale of Siddim") explains, it was "full of slimepits" (bitumen or tar pits). These natural hazards became a significant trap during the battle, as many of the fleeing kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and their armies fell into them, contributing directly to their defeat and capture by the invading Mesopotamian forces.

**Why are the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah specifically mentioned?**

Answer: The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah are prominently mentioned because their cities, along with Admah and Zeboiim, are the infamous "Cities of the Plain" known for their extreme wickedness. Their involvement in this initial rebellion and subsequent defeat sets the stage for their later, more significant interactions with Abraham and Lot, ultimately leading to their [divine destruction](/genesis/19-24 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah") as recorded in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah").

**Did Bela (Zoar) suffer the same fate as Sodom and Gomorrah?**

Answer: No, Bela, which is explicitly identified as Zoar in [Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle"), was uniquely spared the [divine destruction](/genesis/19-24 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah") that befell Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot specifically fled to Zoar at the angels' instruction before the judgment, as detailed in [Genesis 19:20-23](/genesis/19-20-23 "Lot's Plea to Go to Zoar and Its Preservation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 14:8](/genesis/14-8 "The Kings of the Plain Go Forth to Battle") describes an earthly conflict, the broader narrative of [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "The First War in the Bible") profoundly points to Christ, primarily through the figure of [Melchizedek](/genesis/14-18 "Melchizedek, King of Salem and Priest of God Most High"). Following this battle and Abram's victorious rescue of Lot, Abram encounters Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, who blesses Abram and receives a tithe from him. Melchizedek serves as a remarkable **type** or prefigurement of Christ, being both king and priest, without recorded genealogy or end of days, thus foreshadowing Christ's eternal and superior priesthood (as extensively elaborated in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Christ's Priesthood after the Order of Melchizedek")). Furthermore, Abram's decisive action to rescue Lot from captivity and oppression, a deliverance achieved through strength and courage, broadly echoes Christ's ultimate work of salvation, freeing humanity from the bondage of sin and death (as seen in passages like [Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Redemption Through Christ") and [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Christ's Victory Over Death")). Thus, even in this ancient account of war, we glimpse the shadows and patterns of God's redemptive plan culminating in Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 13:10

¶ And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it [was] well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, [even] as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.

Genesis 19:20

Behold now, this city [is] near to flee unto, and it [is] a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, ([is] it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.

Genesis 19:22

Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.

Genesis 14:2

[That these] made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, and Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, which is Zoar.

Genesis 14:3

All these were joined together in the vale of Siddim, which is the salt sea.

Genesis 14:10

And the vale of Siddim [was full of] slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.