Introduction:
Zo'ar, also known as Bela in some biblical references, is a city mentioned in the Old Testament. It holds significance primarily in the narratives surrounding the cities of the plain, including Sodom and Gomorrah. Zo'ar is often noted for its role as a place of refuge and its association with divine judgment and mercy.

Biblical References:
Zo'ar is first mentioned in the context of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. In Genesis 13:10, the region is described as well-watered, "like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt," before its destruction. The city gains prominence in Genesis 19, where it serves as a place of refuge for Lot and his daughters.

Genesis 19:20-23 :
"Look, this town is near enough for me to flee to, and it is small. Please let me flee there—is it not a small place? Then my life will be saved." He said to him, "Very well, I will grant this request as well, and will not overthrow the town you speak of. Hurry, flee there quickly, for I cannot do anything until you reach it." That is why the town was called Zoar. By the time the sun had risen over the land, Lot had reached Zoar."

Historical and Geographical Context:
Zo'ar was one of the five cities of the plain, which included Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim. Its location is traditionally identified near the southeastern edge of the Dead Sea. The city is spared from the catastrophic destruction that befalls its neighboring cities, highlighting its role as a symbol of divine mercy amidst judgment.

Theological Significance:
Zo'ar's narrative underscores themes of divine judgment and mercy. While Sodom and Gomorrah are destroyed due to their wickedness, Zo'ar is spared, illustrating God's willingness to preserve the righteous and those who seek refuge in Him. Lot's plea to flee to Zo'ar and the subsequent sparing of the city demonstrate God's responsiveness to human intercession and His provision of safety for those who trust in Him.

Later References and Legacy:
Zo'ar is mentioned in later biblical texts, including Isaiah 15:5 and Jeremiah 48:34, in prophecies concerning Moab. These references suggest that Zo'ar continued to exist as a notable location beyond the Genesis narrative. Its legacy in biblical history is as a testament to God's mercy and the importance of obedience and faith.

Conclusion:
While Zo'ar may not be as frequently mentioned as other biblical cities, its role in the account of Lot and the destruction of the cities of the plain provides valuable insights into God's character and His dealings with humanity. The city serves as a reminder of the potential for redemption and the importance of seeking refuge in God's provision.

Chapter xix
... Lot is safe. Zo'ar, the resultant name, builds on the root of the word
for "tiny place" (mits'ar) which Lot uses twice. Maher is ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xix.htm

Zo'ar (10 Occurrences)
Zo'ar. Zoar, Zo'ar. Zoba . Multi-Version Concordance Zo'ar (10 Occurrences).
Genesis 13:10 Lot lifted up his eyes, and saw all the ...
/z/zo'ar.htm - 9k

Zoar (12 Occurrences)
...zo'-ar (tso`ar; the Septuagint usually Segor, Zogora): The name of the city to which
Lot escaped from Sodom (Genesis 19:20-23, 30), previously mentioned in ...
/z/zoar.htm - 14k

Zoba (2 Occurrences)

/z/zoba.htm - 7k

Jezoar (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JEZOAR. je-zo'-ar. See IZHAR. Multi-Version
Concordance Jezoar (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:7 And ...
/j/jezoar.htm - 6k

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