Old Testament
Genesis 14:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
these kings waged war against Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar).
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That these made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, and Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, which is Zoar.
What Genesis 14:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a conflict involving several kings from different cities. Bera, the king of Sodom, and Birsha, the king of Gomorrah, are among those who are drawn into this war. The other kings include Shinab from Admah, Shemeber from Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, known as Zoar. This war highlights the struggles for power and territory in the ancient world. Each king represents a city that had its own interests and alliances. The conflict serves as a backdrop for understanding the relationships and tensions between these cities. It also sets the stage for the events that will unfold later in the story, particularly concerning the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. This moment reminds us that conflicts can arise from various motivations, including greed and ambition, and that the consequences can be far-reaching. The alliances formed and broken during this time reflect the complexities of human relationships and the impact of choices made in pursuit of power and control.
How to apply Genesis 14:2 to your life
Consider how conflicts arise in your own life, whether in relationships or work. Reflect on the motivations behind these conflicts and the choices you make. Strive to approach disagreements with understanding and seek resolutions that promote peace and cooperation rather than division and strife. Your choices matter in shaping outcomes for yourself and others around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Abram Rescues Lot (Genesis 14:1–16)
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Abraham
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 14:2 mean?
Genesis 14:2 describes a war involving several kings from different cities, including Bera of Sodom and Birsha of Gomorrah. This conflict highlights the struggles for power and territory in the ancient world, setting the stage for future events in the narrative.
What is the significance of the kings mentioned in Genesis 14:2?
The kings mentioned in Genesis 14:2 represent various cities with their own interests and alliances. Their involvement in the war illustrates the complexities of human relationships and the motivations behind conflicts in the ancient world.
Who are the kings involved in the war in Genesis 14:2?
The kings involved in the war are Bera of Sodom, Birsha of Gomorrah, Shinab of Admah, Shemeber of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, also known as Zoar.
How does Genesis 14:2 relate to the themes of conflict and alliances?
Genesis 14:2 illustrates the themes of conflict and alliances by showing how different kings and their cities engage in war for power and territory. The alliances formed and broken during this time reflect the complexities of human relationships and the impact of choices made.
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