Topical Encyclopedia Sheme'ber is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 14:2. He is identified as the king of Zeboiim, one of the five cities of the plain, which also included Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Bela (later known as Zoar). These cities were located in the region of the Jordan Valley, near the Dead Sea.Biblical Context Sheme'ber's role is primarily noted in the context of the war of the kings, a significant event in the early narrative of Genesis. This conflict is described in Genesis 14, where four eastern kings, led by Chedorlaomer of Elam, waged war against five kings of the cities of the plain, including Sheme'ber. The passage states: "These kings went to 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)" (Genesis 14:2). The coalition of the five kings, including Sheme'ber, rebelled against Chedorlaomer after serving him for twelve years. In the thirteenth year, they decided to resist his rule, leading to the battle in the Valley of Siddim, which is the Salt Sea (Genesis 14:3). Historical and Theological Significance The account of Sheme'ber and the war of the kings is significant for several reasons. Historically, it provides insight into the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East, illustrating the power struggles and alliances that characterized the region. Theologically, the narrative sets the stage for the introduction of Abram (later Abraham) as a key figure in God's redemptive plan. Abram's involvement in rescuing his nephew Lot, who was taken captive during the conflict, demonstrates his emerging role as a man of faith and action. The defeat of Sheme'ber and his allies by the eastern kings underscores the vulnerability of human power and the transient nature of earthly kingdoms. It also highlights the providential care of God for His chosen people, as seen in Abram's successful intervention and subsequent blessing by Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High (Genesis 14:18-20). Cultural and Archaeological Insights While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Sheme'ber or the city of Zeboiim remains elusive, the narrative aligns with known historical patterns of city-states and regional conflicts in the ancient Near East. The cities of the plain, including Zeboiim, are traditionally associated with the area near the southern end of the Dead Sea, a region known for its bitumen pits, which are mentioned in Genesis 14:10. The account of Sheme'ber and the war of the kings serves as a backdrop to the broader biblical themes of divine justice, human rebellion, and the unfolding of God's covenant promises through the patriarchs. Concordance Sheme'ber (1 Occurrence)Genesis 14:2 Thesaurus Sheme'ber (1 Occurrence)Sheme'ber. Shemeber, Sheme'ber. Shemed . Multi-Version Concordance Sheme'ber (1 Occurrence). Genesis 14:2 that they made war with ... /s/sheme'ber.htm - 6k Shemeber (1 Occurrence) Shemed (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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