Topical Bible: Sea of Lot

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Sea of Lot, more commonly known as the Dead Sea, is a significant geographical and historical feature in the biblical narrative. It is located in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by modern-day Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. The Sea of Lot is renowned for its high salinity, making it one of the saltiest bodies of water on earth, and its unique mineral composition.

Biblical Significance

The Sea of Lot is intrinsically linked to the biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, which were situated in the plain of the Jordan near the Dead Sea. These cities are famously known for their destruction due to their wickedness, as recounted in Genesis 19. The narrative describes how God rained down sulfur and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah, leading to their complete obliteration. Lot, Abraham's nephew, and his family were spared from this destruction, with the exception of Lot's wife, who turned into a pillar of salt for looking back at the city (Genesis 19:26: "But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.").

The association of the Dead Sea with Lot's account is further emphasized by its alternate name, the Sea of Lot. This name serves as a reminder of the divine judgment that befell the region and the deliverance of Lot and his daughters.

Geographical and Historical Context

The Dead Sea is situated at the lowest point on the earth's surface, approximately 430 meters (1,410 feet) below sea level. Its high salinity, about 9.6 times saltier than the ocean, prevents most marine life from thriving, hence the name "Dead Sea." The surrounding region is characterized by its arid climate and rugged terrain.

In ancient times, the area around the Dead Sea was known for its bitumen pits, which were used for various purposes, including as a waterproofing agent. Genesis 14:10 mentions these pits in the context of the battle of the kings: "Now the Valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and as the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some fell into them, but the rest fled to the hill country."

Theological Implications

The Sea of Lot serves as a powerful symbol of God's judgment and mercy. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is often cited as an example of divine retribution against sin and immorality. At the same time, the deliverance of Lot and his family highlights God's willingness to save the righteous from impending doom. This dual theme of judgment and salvation is a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures.

Cultural and Religious Legacy

Throughout history, the Dead Sea has captured the imagination of various cultures and religious traditions. It has been a site of refuge, a source of valuable minerals, and a place of spiritual reflection. The stark landscape and the account of Lot continue to inspire religious contemplation and pilgrimage.

In summary, the Sea of Lot, or the Dead Sea, is a place of profound biblical and historical significance. Its connection to the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, its unique geographical features, and its enduring theological themes make it a subject of enduring interest and reflection in the study of the Bible.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Sea of Lot

SEA OF LOT

See DEAD SEA; LAKE.

Library

The Sea of Sodom
... one saith, That he devoted the moneys of idolatry into the salt sea." Hence is ... But
now Zoar was not far distant from Sodom, when Lot, with his company, got ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 5 the sea of.htm

Lot's Flight from Sodom.
... two cities stood upon the plain which the waters of the Dead Sea now cover. ... Before
God destroyed these cities, He sent two angels to Lot, Abraham's nephew, who ...
/.../anonymous/mother stories from the old testament/lots flight from sodom.htm

Fragment ix. Of Abraham and Lot. ...
... and Lot's contended with each other; and with mutual consent they separated, Lot
choosing to ... And they met by the Salt Sea, which is now called the Dead Sea. ...
/.../africanus/the writings of julius africanus/fragment ix of abraham and.htm

The Pioneer's Influence Upon a Nation's Ideals.
... Incidentally it also deals with the relationship between the Hebrews and their
neighbors, the Moabites, across the Jordan and the Dead Sea, for Lot in these ...
/.../kent/the making of a nation/study v the pioneers influence.htm

For Travellers on the Sea-Shore
... At His command. We take thee for our chariot, stormy Sea! Borne safely on to serve
our God by thee,. ... Whether our lot or life or death shall prove,. ...
/.../for travellers on the sea-shore.htm

Concerning Jeroboam King of Israel and Jonah the Prophet; and How ...
... thing that the others did; but as the waves grew greater, and the sea became more ...
them was the occasion of this storm, and agreed to discover by lot which of ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 10 concerning jeroboam king.htm

A Strain of Sodom.
... 180 Is all that old fertility [1234] which Lot,. Seeing outspread before him,... . ...
Thus, therefore (sky. And earth entombed alike), not e'en the sea. ...
/.../fathers of the third century tertullian appendix/2 a strain of sodom.htm

Sky, Earth, and Sea: a Parable of God
... Between the mountain and the sea there is a strip of level land ... It means to flee
for refuge, as the manslayer might flee into the strong city, or as Lot did out ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/sky earth and sea a.htm

Jonah the Narrow-Minded Patriot
... account this evil has come upon us." So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon ... Hebrew,
and a worshipper of Jehovah, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the ...
/.../sherman/the childrens bible/jonah the narrow-minded patriot.htm

A Strain of Jonah the Prophet.
... They stretch their hands to majesties of gods,. Which gods are none; whom might
of sea and sky. ... Then they vote. 95 To learn by lot who is the culprit, who. ...
/.../fathers of the third century tertullian appendix/1 a strain of jonah.htm