### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Beraʻ**, represented by `{{H1298}}`, identifies a **Sodomitish king**. Of uncertain derivation, this name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, tying the figure exclusively to a single event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Beraʻ** `{{H1298}}` is introduced as the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Sodom** `{{H5467}}`. His sole appearance occurs in the context of a conflict where he and other local kings "made **war**" `{{H4421}}`. This alliance included **Beraʻ** alongside Birsha, king of Gomorrah; Shinab, king of Admah; Shemeber, king of Zeboiim; and the king of Bela [[Genesis 14:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the world in which **Beraʻ** lived and ruled:
* `{{H1306}}` **Birshaʻ** (with wickedness): This is the name of the king of **Gomorrah** `{{H6017}}` who is listed as an ally of Beraʻ in the war described in [[Genesis 14:2]].
* `{{H5467}}` **Çᵉdôm** (burnt district): The city-state ruled by Beraʻ, identified as **Sodom**. Scripture later references its overthrow by the LORD [[Genesis 19:24]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is applied to Beraʻ and the other rulers in his coalition, designating their status as monarchs [[Genesis 14:2]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (a battle): This term defines the central event where Beraʻ is mentioned, the **war** that he and his allies participated in [[Genesis 14:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1298}}` is indirect, derived entirely from the king's association with his city.
* **Representation of Wickedness:** As the king of **Sodom** `{{H5467}}`, Beraʻ is the leader of a city later described by its pride and iniquity, becoming a symbol of sin [[Ezekiel 16:49]].
* **Participant in Earthly Conflict:** The mention of Beraʻ is confined to his role in a human **war** `{{H4421}}` among kings of the plain, highlighting a moment of worldly power struggles [[Genesis 14:2]].
* **Association with Divine Judgment:** Although Beraʻ is not mentioned during Sodom's destruction, his rule over the city connects him to its fate. **Sodom** `{{H5467}}` and **Gomorrah** `{{H6017}}` are remembered as places that the LORD overthrew [[Amos 4:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1298}}` is the proper name Beraʻ, a figure whose identity is entirely contained within a single verse. As the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Sodom** `{{H5467}}`, he is a minor character in a worldly **war** `{{H4421}}` [[Genesis 14:2]]. His lasting significance is not personal but positional, as the leader of a city that scripture uses as a powerful emblem of wickedness and divine overthrow.
TRV