Topical Encyclopedia Chedorlaomer, also spelled Kedorlaomer, is a significant figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 14. He is identified as the king of Elam, an ancient kingdom located in what is now southwestern Iran. Chedorlaomer is notable for his role as the leader of a coalition of kings who waged war against the cities of the plain, including Sodom and Gomorrah.Biblical Account The narrative of Chedorlaomer is primarily found in Genesis 14:1-17. The passage describes how Chedorlaomer, along with three allied kings—Amraphel of Shinar, Arioch of Ellasar, and Tidal, king of nations—formed a confederation to subdue a rebellion by five Canaanite kings. These five kings, including the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, had served Chedorlaomer for twelve years but rebelled in the thirteenth year. In response to the rebellion, Chedorlaomer and his allies launched a military campaign to reassert their dominance. Genesis 14:5-7 details their victories over various peoples and territories, demonstrating their military prowess and the extent of their campaign. The coalition eventually engaged the rebellious kings in the Valley of Siddim, where they achieved a decisive victory, capturing goods and people, including Lot, the nephew of Abram (later Abraham). Abram's Intervention The capture of Lot prompted Abram to take action. Upon hearing of his nephew's capture, Abram gathered 318 trained men from his household and pursued Chedorlaomer's forces. In a surprise night attack, Abram and his men defeated the coalition, rescuing Lot and recovering the plunder. This event is recorded in Genesis 14:14-16: "When Abram heard that his relative had been captured, he mobilized the 318 trained men born in his household, and they set out in pursuit as far as Dan. During the night, Abram divided his forces and routed them, pursuing them as far as Hobah, north of Damascus. He recovered all the goods, as well as his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the rest of the people." Historical and Theological Significance Chedorlaomer's campaign is one of the earliest recorded military conflicts in the Bible, providing insight into the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East. The account highlights the widespread influence of Elam and its king, as well as the interconnectedness of various city-states and regions during this period. From a theological perspective, the narrative underscores God's providence and protection over Abram and his family. Abram's successful rescue of Lot is seen as a testament to his faith and God's favor upon him. The episode also foreshadows the future role of Abram's descendants, the Israelites, as a people chosen by God to fulfill His purposes. Chedorlaomer in Tradition In Jewish and Christian traditions, Chedorlaomer is often viewed as a symbol of oppressive power and tyranny, representing the forces that oppose God's people. His defeat by Abram is celebrated as a victory of faith and divine intervention over worldly might. Overall, Chedorlaomer's account serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring sovereignty of God in the affairs of humanity. Concordance Ched-or-lao'mer (5 Occurrences)Genesis 14:1 Genesis 14:4 Genesis 14:5 Genesis 14:9 Genesis 14:17 Thesaurus Ched-or-lao'mer (5 Occurrences)Ched-or-lao'mer. Chedorlaomer, Ched-or-lao'mer. Cheek . Multi-Version Concordance Ched-or-lao'mer (5 Occurrences). Genesis 14:1 ... /c/ched-or-lao'mer.htm - 7k Cheek (9 Occurrences) Chedorlaomer (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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