Admah and Zeboiim were two of the five cities of the plain mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the infamous cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. These cities are primarily noted for their destruction due to the wickedness of their inhabitants, as recorded in the Book of Genesis.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 10:19 · Admah and Zeboiim are first mentioned in the Table of Nations, which outlines the borders of the Canaanite territory: "And the territory of the Canaanites extended from Sidon toward Gerar as far as Gaza, and then toward Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, as far as Lasha."

2. Genesis 14:2 · The cities are mentioned in the context of a coalition of kings: "that they made war with Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar)."

3. Genesis 19:24-25 · Although not named directly in this passage, Admah and Zeboiim are understood to be part of the cities destroyed by divine judgment: "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground."

4. Deuteronomy 29:23 · The destruction of these cities is used as a warning to Israel: "All its land will be a burning waste of sulfur and salt, unplanted and unproductive, and no grass will grow on it. It will be like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboiim, which the LORD overthrew in His fierce anger."

5. Hosea 11:8 · The prophet Hosea references these cities to express God's compassion and reluctance to destroy Israel: "How could I give you up, O Ephraim? How could I hand you over, O Israel? How could I make you like Admah? How could I treat you like Zeboiim? My heart is turned within Me; all My compassion is aroused."

Historical and Theological Context:

Admah and Zeboiim, along with Sodom and Gomorrah, are often cited as examples of divine judgment against sin and immorality. The narrative of their destruction serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness and justice. The cities' obliteration is frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a symbol of total devastation and a warning to those who turn away from God's commandments.

The exact locations of Admah and Zeboiim remain uncertain, though they are traditionally believed to have been situated near the southern end of the Dead Sea. Archaeological efforts have yet to definitively identify these sites, but the biblical account emphasizes their historical and moral significance rather than their geographical details.

In the broader biblical narrative, the fate of Admah and Zeboiim underscores the themes of judgment and mercy. While these cities faced destruction due to their iniquity, the biblical text also highlights God's willingness to spare and redeem those who turn to Him in repentance, as seen in the intercession of Abraham for Sodom and the rescue of Lot and his family.