Genesis 14:9

KJV

With Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, and with Tidal king of nations, and Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar; four kings with five.

KJV (with Strong's)

With Chedorlaomer {H3540} the king {H4428} of Elam {H5867}, and with Tidal {H8413} king {H4428} of nations {H1471}, and Amraphel {H569} king {H4428} of Shinar {H8152}, and Arioch {H746} king {H4428} of Ellasar {H495}; four {H702} kings {H4428} with five {H2568}.

Complete Jewish Bible

against K'dorla'omer king of 'Elam, Tid'al king of Goyim, Amrafel king of Admah and Aryokh king of Elasar, four kings against the five.

Berean Standard Bible

against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goiim, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar—four kings against five.

American Standard Version

against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim, and Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar; four kings against the five.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
A critical enumeration of the formidable eastern coalition: Chedorlaomer, king of Elam; Tidal, king of nations; Amraphel, king of Shinar; and Arioch, king of Ellasar. This verse precisely identifies the four powerful monarchs who united to confront the five rebellious kings of the Jordan plain, thereby establishing the overwhelming geopolitical scale and military might that directly led to Lot's capture and, subsequently, precipitated Abraham's divinely empowered intervention.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within [Genesis chapter 14](/genesis/14 "The War of the Kings and Abraham's Rescue"), a unique narrative within the patriarchal history that details a significant regional conflict. The preceding verses, [Genesis 14:1-4](/genesis/14-1-4 "The Kings Go to War"), introduce Chedorlaomer's long-standing dominion over the Jordan plain kings and their subsequent rebellion. Following this, [Genesis 14:5-7](/genesis/14-5-7 "Chedorlaomer's Campaign") describes the eastern kings' punitive campaign against various peoples south and east of the Jordan, demonstrating their military prowess and strategic intent before directly engaging the rebellious kings. [Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") specifically names the leaders of this eastern alliance, setting the stage for the climactic battle in [Genesis 14:8-10](/genesis/14-8-10 "The Battle in the Valley of Siddim") where they decisively defeat the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, leading to [Lot's capture in Genesis 14:12](/genesis/14-12 "Lot's Capture") and Abraham's subsequent heroic rescue.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "The War of the Kings and Abraham's Rescue") reflect the geopolitical realities of the ancient Near East during the early second millennium BCE, a period characterized by powerful city-states and regional empires vying for dominance and control over trade routes and resources. Elam, located in modern-day southwestern Iran, was a significant political and military force, often in conflict or alliance with Mesopotamian powers. Shinar refers to Sumer or Babylonia, the cradle of civilization between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. "King of nations" (Hebrew: *Tidal goyim*) suggests a ruler over a confederation of diverse peoples, possibly nomadic groups or a loosely defined territory, rather than a single, established kingdom. Ellasar's exact location is debated but is generally placed in Mesopotamia, perhaps Larsa. The narrative accurately portrays the practice of vassalage, tribute, and punitive expeditions common in this era, lending a strong sense of historical verisimilitude to the biblical account of these powerful rulers from distant lands asserting their authority over smaller, local city-states in the fertile crescent.
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty of God** over human history and geopolitical affairs, even amidst the seemingly chaotic conflicts of powerful empires. The detailed listing of these formidable kings serves to magnify the later **divine empowerment of Abraham**, highlighting that his victory was not merely a human feat but a testament to God's intervention on behalf of His covenant people. This episode also introduces the theme of **Abraham's role as a deliverer and protector of his kin**, foreshadowing the future role of Israel and ultimately, Christ. Furthermore, the conflict between these "kings of the world" and the nascent people of God establishes an early biblical precedent for the ongoing **spiritual warfare** between the kingdom of God and worldly powers, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament and finds its ultimate culmination in the New Testament's depiction of Christ's triumph over all earthly and spiritual dominion, as seen in passages like [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Powers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") presents a stark and direct listing of the four allied eastern kings: Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of nations, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar. This enumeration is not merely a roll call; it serves to underscore the immense power and widespread reach of the forces arrayed against the local kings of the Jordan plain, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **king (Hebrew, _melek'_ - H4428):** Derived from the root meaning "to rule" or "to reign," this term denotes a sovereign ruler, one who exercises authority over a territory or people. Its repeated use in [Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") emphasizes the royal status and inherent power of each individual named, highlighting that this is not a mere band of marauders but a coalition of established monarchs, each with their own realm and military might. The presence of multiple "kings" underscores the significant political and military alliance formed.
* **nations (Hebrew, _gôwy'_ - H1471):** This word, often translated as "Gentile" or "heathen," refers to a foreign people or a collective group. In the context of Tidal, "king of nations" suggests a dominion that is not confined to a single, clearly defined kingdom but perhaps encompasses a diverse confederation of tribes, peoples, or a broad, undefined territory. This implies a formidable and potentially unpredictable force, drawing strength from a wide array of sources, making Tidal's military contribution particularly significant and diverse.
* **four (Hebrew, _ʼarbaʻ'_ - H702) / five (Hebrew, _châmêsh'_ - H2568):** These primitive numerals succinctly summarize the two opposing alliances. The "four kings with five" immediately establishes the numerical and implied power imbalance. It signifies four unified, powerful eastern monarchs confronting five rebellious, likely less cohesive, local kings. This concise numerical summary sets the stage for the decisive battle, emphasizing the overwhelming odds faced by the Jordan plain kings and, by extension, the daunting challenge that Abraham would later confront.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"With Chedorlaomer the king of Elam":** This clause introduces the apparent leader and dominant figure of the eastern coalition. Chedorlaomer, from the powerful kingdom of Elam (modern-day southwestern Iran), had held the Jordan plain kings in vassalage for twelve years, indicating his established authority and military might. His presence signifies the primary force behind the punitive expedition.
* **"and with Tidal king of nations":** Tidal's title, "king of nations," is unique and suggests a ruler not of a single, defined kingdom but possibly a confederation of various peoples or tribes. This indicates a broad and diverse military contribution to the alliance, perhaps from nomadic groups or a loosely organized dominion, adding to the formidable nature of the eastern forces.
* **"and Amraphel king of Shinar":** Amraphel rules over Shinar, the biblical name for Sumer or Babylonia, a central and historically significant region in Mesopotamia. This places his kingdom in a powerful and ancient land, known for its advanced civilization and military capabilities, further solidifying the formidable nature of the eastern alliance.
* **"and Arioch king of Ellasar":** Arioch, king of Ellasar, completes the list of the four allied monarchs. While Ellasar's exact location is debated, it is generally placed in Mesopotamia, possibly linked to the city-state of Larsa. His inclusion underscores the widespread nature of this coalition, drawing power from across a significant portion of the ancient Near East.
* **"four kings with five":** This concluding phrase is a concise and powerful summary of the opposing forces. It highlights the numerical superiority of the eastern coalition (four unified kings) against the five rebellious kings of the Jordan plain. This succinct statement immediately communicates the overwhelming odds and sets the stage for the decisive victory of the eastern alliance, which directly leads to Lot's capture and Abraham's subsequent intervention.

#### Literary Devices
[Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Enumeration**, as the verse meticulously lists the four allied kings and their respective kingdoms. This detailed listing serves not merely as an informative roll call but as a means of establishing the immense power, geographical reach, and formidable nature of the eastern coalition. By naming each king and their domain, the text creates a sense of gravitas and historical specificity, grounding the narrative in a discernible geopolitical reality. Furthermore, there is an element of **Juxtaposition** in the concluding phrase "four kings with five." This concise statement immediately highlights the numerical imbalance and implied power disparity between the two alliances, setting up the dramatic conflict that follows. The repetition of "king" throughout the verse also functions as a subtle form of **Anaphora** (though not at the beginning of clauses), reinforcing the royal authority and military might of each individual leader, collectively emphasizing the overwhelming force they represent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The enumeration of these powerful kings in [Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings") serves to magnify the scale of the conflict and, by extension, the miraculous nature of God's intervention through Abraham. It underscores the theological truth that even the grandest human empires and their geopolitical machinations operate within the overarching framework of God's divine sovereignty. This episode demonstrates that God is not confined by human power structures or military might; rather, He orchestrates events, even through seemingly secular conflicts, to advance His redemptive purposes and protect His chosen covenant line. The formidable nature of these "kings of the world" highlights the contrast with God's chosen servant, Abraham, who, by divine empowerment, is able to overcome what appears to be an insurmountable worldly force, thereby affirming God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His ability to deliver His people from overwhelming odds.

* [Deuteronomy 32:8](/deuteronomy/32-8 "God's Sovereignty Over Nations")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10-11 "God Frustrates the Plans of Nations")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "God Changes Times and Seasons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings"), though a historical detail, profoundly reminds us that human history, with its intricate conflicts and power struggles, unfolds under the watchful and sovereign eye of God. The enumeration of these powerful kings highlights the daunting challenges that often arise in life—whether personal struggles, societal injustices, or global conflicts—which can feel overwhelming and insurmountable. Yet, it is precisely within such circumstances that God's providence and power become most evident. Abraham's courageous decision to confront and defeat such a formidable alliance, as described later in [Genesis 14:14-16](/genesis/14-14-16 "Abraham's Pursuit and Victory"), serves as an enduring example of how God can empower His people to overcome seemingly impossible odds, even when facing forces far greater than their own resources. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's strength when confronted with overwhelming opposition, to act courageously in defense of truth and righteousness, and to remain loyal to family and community, much like [Abraham's initial call to leave his homeland in Genesis 12:1](/genesis/12-1 "God's Call to Abraham"), trusting that God's purposes will prevail for those who follow His call and rely on His divine intervention.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed listing of these powerful kings in Genesis 14:9 challenge or affirm your understanding of God's sovereignty over global events and human history?**
* **In what areas of your life do you currently face "overwhelming odds" or "formidable alliances" that seem beyond your ability to overcome? How might Abraham's story encourage you to trust in God's empowerment?**
* **What does Abraham's willingness to intervene on behalf of Lot, despite the danger, teach us about our responsibility to family and community, especially when they are in distress?**

### FAQ
**Were these kings historically verifiable outside of the biblical account?**

Answer: While direct, unequivocal archaeological or extra-biblical evidence for these specific four kings in the precise configuration of [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "The War of the Kings and Abraham's Rescue") is not yet definitively established, the names of the kings (Chedorlaomer, Amraphel, Arioch, Tidal) and their kingdoms (Elam, Shinar/Babylonia, Ellasar, "nations") are remarkably consistent with known ancient Near Eastern names, places, and geopolitical realities of the early second millennium BCE. Powerful Elamite rulers, Mesopotamian city-states like Larsa (possibly Ellasar), and confederations of "nations" (like the Amorites or Hurrians) are well-attested in extra-biblical records. This consistency lends strong historical plausibility to the biblical narrative, suggesting that the author was familiar with the historical context of the period. While specific corroborating inscriptions for this exact event remain elusive, the general historical framework aligns with what is known about the ancient world, affirming the trustworthiness of the biblical account as a historically grounded narrative.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The conflict detailed in [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "The War of the Kings and Abraham's Rescue"), initiated by the formidable kings listed in [Genesis 14:9](/genesis/14-9 "The Four Eastern Kings"), ultimately leads to Abraham's decisive victory and the rescue of Lot. This event powerfully prefigures Christ's ultimate triumph over the forces of sin, death, and spiritual darkness. Just as Abraham, a type of Christ, confronted and defeated overwhelming worldly powers to deliver his kinsman from captivity, so too did Christ, the true King and Deliverer, conquer the spiritual enemies that held humanity captive, securing eternal salvation for all who believe in Him, as celebrated in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Powers and Authorities"). Furthermore, Abraham's encounter with [Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High](/genesis/14-18 "Melchizedek Meets Abraham"), immediately following this victory, profoundly points to Christ as the eternal King-Priest, superior to the Levitical priesthood, whose reign and intercession are established not through earthly conflict but through His perfect sacrifice and resurrection, a theme beautifully expounded in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Melchizedek and the Priesthood of Christ"). Thus, the seemingly historical detail of these ancient kings ultimately serves to magnify the far greater victory and eternal reign of our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, as proclaimed in [Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "King of Kings and Lord of Lords").

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.