Chedorlaomer, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known as the King of Elam. His account is recounted in Genesis 14, where he emerges as a powerful monarch who led a coalition of kings in a military campaign against the cities of the plain, including Sodom and Gomorrah.

Historical Context and Background

Chedorlaomer's reign is set in the patriarchal period, a time when city-states and small kingdoms were prevalent in the ancient Near East. Elam, located in the region of present-day southwestern Iran, was a prominent kingdom known for its influence and military prowess. Chedorlaomer's name, which may mean "servant of Lagamar" (a deity worshiped in Elam), reflects the syncretic religious practices of the time.

Biblical Account

In Genesis 14:1-2 , Chedorlaomer is introduced as the leader of a confederation of four kings: "In those days Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim 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)." This coalition sought to subdue the rebellious cities of the plain, which had served as vassals to Chedorlaomer for twelve years but rebelled in the thirteenth year.

Chedorlaomer's campaign is marked by a series of victories over various peoples and territories, as detailed in Genesis 14:5-7 : "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzim in Ham, the Emim in Shaveh-kiriathaim, and the Horites in the area of Mount Seir, as far as El-paran, which is near the desert. Then they turned back to En-mishpat (that is, Kadesh), and they conquered the whole territory of the Amalekites, as well as the Amorites who lived in Hazazon-tamar."

Conflict with Abraham

The narrative takes a pivotal turn when Chedorlaomer's forces capture Lot, the nephew of Abram (later Abraham), during the sacking of Sodom and Gomorrah. This act prompts Abram to take decisive action. In Genesis 14:14-16 , it is recorded: "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 Chedorlaomer's army, 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."

Abram's victory over Chedorlaomer is significant, not only for the liberation of Lot but also as a demonstration of God's favor and protection over Abram. This event underscores the theme of divine intervention and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abram.

Theological Significance

Chedorlaomer's account serves as a backdrop to highlight the faith and courage of Abram, who, despite being vastly outnumbered, trusts in God's provision and emerges victorious. The account also illustrates the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable odds.

Chedorlaomer's defeat at the hands of Abram foreshadows the eventual triumph of God's chosen people over their adversaries, a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. The narrative reinforces the belief in God's active role in history and His commitment to His covenant promises.