### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Birshaʻ**, represented by `{{H1306}}`, is the proper name of a **king of Gomorrah**. With a base definition of "with wickedness," this name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole appearance places this figure within a significant regional conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H1306}}` is found in [[Genesis 14:2]], which lists the kings who **made** `{{H6213}}` **war** `{{H4421}}`. In this account, **Birsha** is identified as the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Gomorrah** `{{H6017}}`, aligned with a coalition of kings from the cities of the plain, including Bera, the king of Sodom. This event, the battle of the kings, sets the stage for a key narrative involving Abraham.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of Birsha's identity and actions:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word defines Birsha's role and authority. He is not merely a resident but a ruler who engages in international conflict on behalf of his city [[Genesis 14:2]].
* `{{H6017}}` **ʻĂmôrâh** (Gomorrah): This is the city-state ruled by Birsha. In later scripture, Gomorrah becomes a symbol of profound wickedness and divine judgment, as seen when the LORD rained fire upon it [[Genesis 19:24]].
* `{{H1298}}` **Beraʻ** (Bera): The king of Sodom and an ally of Birsha. His presence alongside Birsha in the same verse highlights the political coalition of the cities of the plain [[Genesis 14:2]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (war): This term describes the specific activity in which Birsha is engaged. His only mention is in the context of participating in a great battle [[Genesis 14:2]].
### Theological Significance
Though mentioned only once, the context surrounding `{{H1306}}` carries theological weight.
* **A Name of Wickedness:** The name Birsha itself is defined as "with wickedness," which aligns directly with the infamous reputation of the city he ruled, **Gomorrah** `{{H6017}}`. This links his personal identity to the moral state of his kingdom.
* **Leadership in a Condemned City:** Birsha’s role as **king** `{{H4428}}` places him as the leader of a people who would later be held up as a prime example of divine overthrow due to their sin [[Amos 4:11]].
* **Earthly Conflict:** The narrative places Birsha within a conflict between earthly kings. This "war" `{{H4421}}` serves as a backdrop for the larger spiritual and covenantal events unfolding in the life of Abraham.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1306}}` **Birshaʻ** is a name tied exclusively to one person: the king of Gomorrah. He appears for a fleeting moment in scripture, recorded only as a participant in a battle of kings. His significance is derived not from his actions but from his association with Gomorrah, a city whose name would become a permanent biblical symbol of sin and divine judgment.
TRV