Overview:
Zeboi'im, also spelled Zeboiim, is one of the ancient cities mentioned in the Bible, primarily known for its association with the infamous cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. It is part of the Pentapolis, a group of five cities located in the plain of the Jordan River. Zeboi'im is often mentioned in the context of divine judgment and destruction due to the wickedness of its inhabitants.

Biblical References:
Zeboi'im is first mentioned in Genesis 10:19, 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 Zeboi'im, as far as Lasha."

The most significant reference to Zeboi'im is found in Genesis 14:2, where it is listed among the cities that rebelled against Chedorlaomer, king of Elam: "These kings went to war against Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboi'im, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar)." This passage highlights the political alliances and conflicts of the time, with Zeboi'im being a key player in the regional dynamics.

Zeboi'im is also mentioned in the context of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. Although the city is not explicitly named in the account of the destruction, it is traditionally understood to have suffered the same fate due to its inclusion in the Pentapolis. The narrative describes how God rained down sulfur and fire, obliterating these cities because of their grievous sins.

Historical and Archaeological Context:
The exact location of Zeboi'im remains uncertain, though it is generally believed to have been situated near the southern end of the Dead Sea, along with the other cities of the plain. Archaeological efforts have yet to definitively identify the site, but some scholars suggest that the ruins may lie beneath the waters of the Dead Sea or in its surrounding areas.

Theological Significance:
Zeboi'im serves as a symbol of divine judgment against sin and immorality. The destruction of Zeboi'im, along with Sodom and Gomorrah, is frequently cited in Scripture as a warning to future generations. In Deuteronomy 29:23, Moses warns the Israelites of the consequences of turning away from God: "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 Zeboi'im, which the LORD overthrew in His fierce anger."

The New Testament also references the destruction of these cities as a cautionary tale. In 2 Peter 2:6, the apostle Peter writes, "He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction, reducing them to ashes as an example of what is coming on the ungodly." This underscores the enduring legacy of Zeboi'im as a testament to God's righteousness and justice.

Cultural Impact:
The account of Zeboi'im and its neighboring cities has permeated Western culture, often serving as a metaphor for moral decay and divine retribution. The narrative has been depicted in various forms of art, literature, and religious teachings, reinforcing the moral lessons derived from the biblical account.

Conclusion:
While Zeboi'im is not as prominently featured in the biblical narrative as Sodom and Gomorrah, its inclusion in the account of divine judgment highlights the broader theme of accountability before God. The city's fate serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of righteousness in the eyes of the Lord.Zeboi'im (4 Occurrences)

Genesis 10:19
And the border of the Canaanite was from Zidon, as thou goest toward Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest toward Sodom and Gomorrah and Admah and Zeboiim, unto Lasha.
(See RSV)

Genesis 14:2
that they made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, and Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela--the same is Zoar.
(See RSV)

Genesis 14:8
And there went out the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela--the same is Zoar; and they set the battle in array against them in the vale of Siddim;
(See RSV)

Hosea 11:8
How do I give thee up, O Ephraim? Do I deliver thee up, O Israel? How do I make thee as Admah? Do I set thee as Zeboim? Turned in Me is My heart, kindled together have been My repentings.
(See RSV)

Zeboi'im (4 Occurrences)
Zeboi'im. Zeboiim, Zeboi'im. Zeboim . Multi-Version Concordance Zeboi'im
(4 Occurrences). Genesis 10:19 And the border of the Canaanite ...
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Zeboim (7 Occurrences)

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Zeboiim (7 Occurrences)

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