The name Kᵉdorlâʻômer, represented by H3540, refers to Chedorlaomer, an early king of foreign origin. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the narrative of a major regional conflict. He is presented as a powerful monarch whose actions drive the events of Genesis chapter 14.
In the biblical narrative, Chedorlaomer H3540 is identified as the king H4428 of Elam H5867, who leads an alliance of four kings (Genesis 14:1, Genesis 14:9). The conflict begins when several city-kings who had served H5647 Chedorlaomer H3540 for twelve years H8141 decided to rebel H4775 in the thirteenth year Genesis 14:4. In response, Chedorlaomer H3540 and his allies came H935 and smote H5221 the Rephaims, Zuzims, and Emims Genesis 14:5. The account concludes after the "slaughter of Chedorlaomer" H3540 and the kings who were with him Genesis 14:17.
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Chedorlaomer's story:
- H4428 melek (a king): This title is consistently applied to Chedorlaomer H3540, defining his status as a ruler over a nation and other kings Genesis 14:1. The narrative is framed as a war between two groups of kings.
- H5867 ʻÊylâm (Elam): This identifies the country over which Chedorlaomer H3540 ruled, situating him as a significant foreign power Genesis 14:9.
- H4775 mârad (to rebel): This action serves as the catalyst for the entire military campaign. The rebellion of the vassal kings against Chedorlaomer H3540 prompts his swift and decisive retaliation Genesis 14:4.
- H5221 nâkâh (to strike): This word describes both the initial military success of Chedorlaomer H3540 in smiting his enemies Genesis 14:5 and his eventual defeat, which is called a "slaughter" Genesis 14:17.
The brief appearance of Chedorlaomer H3540 carries significant weight within its narrative context.
- Imperial Dominion: He represents a formidable foreign power who held other kingdoms in subjugation, as they were forced to serve H5647 him for twelve years H8141 Genesis 14:4.
- Catalyst for Abram's Heroism: The war initiated by the rebellion against Chedorlaomer H3540 leads directly to the capture of Lot, which in turn prompts Abram to intervene, showcasing his faith and leadership.
- Coalition of Kings: The conflict is portrayed as a battle between two powerful alliances, with Chedorlaomer H3540 leading a coalition of four H702 kings against five H2568 others, illustrating the scale of the conflict Genesis 14:9.
- Defeat of Earthly Power: Despite his military might, Chedorlaomer H3540 and his allied kings are ultimately defeated, an event described as "the slaughter of Chedorlaomer" Genesis 14:17.
In summary, Kᵉdorlâʻômer H3540 is more than just a name in a king list. He is the central antagonist in a foundational story of conflict and deliverance in Genesis. As the king of Elam H5867, his dominion, the subsequent rebellion against him, and his ultimate defeat frame a narrative that establishes Abram as a decisive military and spiritual figure.
TRV