Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionZoar, a small city mentioned in the Old Testament, holds a significant place in biblical history due to its association with the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Unlike its neighboring cities, Zoar was spared from divine judgment, serving as a refuge for Lot and his daughters. This entry explores the biblical narrative surrounding Zoar, its geographical and historical context, and its theological implications. Biblical Narrative The account of Zoar is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 19, the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah are described as exceedingly wicked, prompting God to announce their impending destruction. However, Abraham's intercession leads to a divine concession: if ten righteous people are found in Sodom, the city will be spared (Genesis 18:32). Despite this, only Lot and his family are deemed righteous enough to be saved. As the angels lead Lot and his family out of Sodom, Lot pleads for the safety of Zoar, a nearby city. He argues that it is a small city and requests permission to flee there instead of the mountains, fearing he might not survive the journey. The angels grant his request, saying, "Very well, I will grant this request as well, and will not overthrow the town you speak of" (Genesis 19:21). Thus, Zoar becomes a place of refuge for Lot and his daughters. Geographical and Historical Context Zoar, meaning "small" or "insignificant" in Hebrew, was located in the region of the Jordan Valley, near the Dead Sea. Its precise location remains uncertain, but it is traditionally identified with the site of modern-day Safi in Jordan. The city's proximity to Sodom and Gomorrah underscores its vulnerability to the same fate, yet its sparing highlights God's mercy and the efficacy of intercession. Historically, Zoar continued to exist beyond the biblical narrative, mentioned in various ancient texts and maps. It served as a waypoint for travelers and a place of refuge, consistent with its role in the Genesis account. Theological Implications The sparing of Zoar amidst the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah offers several theological insights. First, it underscores the theme of divine mercy. While God's justice demands the punishment of sin, His mercy provides a way of escape for the righteous. Zoar's preservation serves as a testament to God's willingness to save those who seek refuge in Him. Second, the narrative highlights the power of intercession. Abraham's plea for the righteous in Sodom, though ultimately unable to save the city, results in the salvation of Lot and the sparing of Zoar. This demonstrates the impact of righteous intercession and God's responsiveness to the prayers of His people. Lastly, Zoar's role as a refuge for Lot and his daughters illustrates the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision. Lot's initial hesitation to flee to the mountains reflects human fear and doubt, yet God's accommodation of his request shows His patience and understanding of human frailty. Conclusion Zoar's account, woven into the larger narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah, provides a rich tapestry of themes including divine mercy, intercession, and obedience. Its sparing serves as a reminder of God's grace and the refuge He offers to those who seek Him. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 19:20-23,30Behold now, this city is near to flee to, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live. Nave's Topical Index Library Lot's Flight from Sodom. Lot's Escape from a Wicked City Chapter xiii The History after the Flood. The Swift Destroyer The Importance of a Choice Chapter xix Letter cxxii. To Rusticus. Godly Fear and Its Goodly Consequence On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. Resources Who was Lot in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Moabites? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Moab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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