בִּרְשַׁע

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.