Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Bera was the king of Sodom during the time of Abraham, as recorded in the Book of Genesis. His reign is noted in the context of the war of the kings, a significant event that took place in the ancient Near East. Bera's account is primarily found in Genesis 14, where he is mentioned as one of the five kings who joined forces to fight against a coalition of four eastern kings led by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam.Biblical Account In Genesis 14:2, Bera is introduced as the king of Sodom: "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)." This coalition of five kings, including Bera, was formed to resist the domination of Chedorlaomer and his allies, who had subjugated the region for twelve years. The conflict is described in Genesis 14:8-10: "Then the king of Sodom, the king of Gomorrah, the king of Admah, the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar) marched out and arrayed themselves for battle in the Valley of Siddim against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goiim, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar—four kings against five. Now the Valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and as the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some men fell into the pits, but the rest fled to the hill country." The battle resulted in the defeat of Bera and his allies, leading to the capture of Lot, Abraham's nephew, who was living in Sodom at the time. This event prompted Abraham to take action, as he gathered his trained men and pursued the victorious kings to rescue Lot and his possessions. Historical and Theological Significance Bera's role in the narrative highlights the moral and spiritual decline of Sodom, a city that would later be destroyed by divine judgment due to its wickedness. The defeat of Bera and the other kings serves as a backdrop to Abraham's demonstration of faith and courage, as he intervenes to rescue Lot, showcasing the providence and protection of God over His chosen people. The account of Bera and the war of the kings also underscores the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East, illustrating the constant struggle for power and dominance among city-states and regional powers. This historical context provides insight into the challenges faced by the patriarchs and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of Abraham. Cultural Context The mention of tar pits in Genesis 14:10 is significant, as it reflects the natural resources and geographical features of the region. The Valley of Siddim, where the battle took place, is believed to be located near the Dead Sea, an area known for its bitumen deposits. This detail adds authenticity to the biblical narrative, aligning with archaeological findings and historical records of the time. Bera's account, though brief, is a testament to the broader themes of judgment, redemption, and divine intervention that permeate the biblical text. His reign and subsequent defeat serve as a prelude to the eventual destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing the consequences of sin and the righteousness of God's justice. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary BeraSmith's Bible Dictionary Bera(son of evil) king of Sodom. (Genesis 14:2) also (Genesis 14:17,21) ATS Bible Dictionary BeraKing of Sodom in the days of Abraham, Genesis 14:1-24. Easton's Bible Dictionary Gift, or son of evil, king of Sodom at the time of the invasion of the four kings under Chedorlaomer (Genesis 14:2, 8, 17, 21). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BERAbe'-ra (bera`, "gift"(?); compare HPN, 74 note): King of Sodom (Genesis 14:2) who in the battle of Siddim was subdued by Chedorlaomer. Strong's Hebrew 1298. Bera -- a king of Sodom... 1297, 1298. Bera. 1299 . a king of Sodom. Transliteration: Bera Phonetic Spelling: (beh'-rah) Short Definition: Bera. Word Origin ... /hebrew/1298.htm - 5k Library The History after the Flood. Discovery of the Remains of the Prophets Habakkuk and Micah. Death ... Letter ccxxii. To the People of Chalcis. Chapter xiv Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Thesaurus Bera (1 Occurrence)...BERA. be'-ra (bera`, "gift"(?); compare HPN, 74 note): King of Sodom (Genesis 14:2) who in the battle of Siddim was subdued by Chedorlaomer. ...Bera (1 Occurrence). ... /b/bera.htm - 7k Bera'cah (1 Occurrence) Beracah (2 Occurrences) Zeboim (7 Occurrences) Zeboiim (7 Occurrences) Zo'ar (10 Occurrences) Zeboi'im (4 Occurrences) Gomorrah (25 Occurrences) Gomor'rah (23 Occurrences) Zoar (12 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bera (1 Occurrence)Genesis 14:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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