Kedorlaomer is a significant figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is identified as the king of Elam and plays a central role in the narrative of the War of the Kings, which is detailed in Genesis 14. This account provides insight into the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East and highlights the interactions between various city-states and kingdoms during the time of the patriarchs.

Biblical Account

In Genesis 14:1-17, Kedorlaomer is described as the leader of a coalition of four kings, which includes Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, and Tidal king of Goiim. This coalition wages war against a confederation of five kings from the region of the Jordan Valley, including the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah. The conflict arises because the latter group had served Kedorlaomer for twelve years but rebelled in the thirteenth year.

The narrative states: "In the fourteenth year, Kedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzites in Ham, the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim, and the Horites in the hill country of Seir, as far as El-paran, which is near the desert" (Genesis 14:5-6). This passage highlights Kedorlaomer's military prowess and the extent of his campaign, which subdues various peoples and regions.

The coalition led by Kedorlaomer eventually defeats the rebellious kings in the Valley of Siddim, capturing goods and people, including Lot, the nephew of Abram (later Abraham). This act prompts Abram to take action, as he gathers a small force to rescue Lot. With divine assistance, Abram defeats Kedorlaomer and his allies, recovering Lot and the possessions taken from Sodom.

Historical and Theological Significance

Kedorlaomer's role in the biblical narrative underscores the theme of divine intervention and the protection of God's chosen people. Abram's victory over a seemingly superior force is attributed to God's favor, illustrating the power of faith and obedience to God's will. This event also serves as a precursor to the covenantal promises made to Abram, emphasizing the special relationship between God and the patriarchs.

From a historical perspective, Kedorlaomer's mention provides a glimpse into the complex political dynamics of the ancient Near East. Elam, his kingdom, was a prominent power located in what is now southwestern Iran. The coalition of kings and the subsequent battles reflect the alliances and conflicts typical of the period, offering a backdrop for understanding the broader context of the patriarchal narratives.

Cultural Context

The account of Kedorlaomer and the War of the Kings is set in a time when city-states and small kingdoms frequently engaged in warfare to assert dominance and control over trade routes and resources. The narrative reflects the realities of ancient warfare, including the practice of forming coalitions to achieve military objectives. It also highlights the vulnerability of smaller city-states, such as Sodom and Gomorrah, to the ambitions of more powerful rulers like Kedorlaomer.

Legacy

Kedorlaomer's legacy in the biblical text is primarily as an antagonist whose actions set the stage for Abram's demonstration of faith and courage. His defeat serves as a testament to God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through the patriarchs. While Kedorlaomer himself does not reappear in the biblical narrative, his encounter with Abram marks a significant moment in the history of God's people, reinforcing the themes of divine justice and deliverance.3540. Kedorlaomer -- a king of Elam
... Kedorlaomer. 3541 . a king of Elam. Transliteration: Kedorlaomer Phonetic Spelling:
(ked-or-law-o'-mer) Short Definition: Chedorlaomer. ... Kedorlaomer. 3541 . ...
/hebrew/3540.htm - 6kKedorlaomer (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kedorlaomer (4 Occurrences). Genesis 14:1 It happened
in the days of Amraphel, king of Shinar, Arioch, king ...
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Kedmah (2 Occurrences)

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Kedron (1 Occurrence)

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Who was Chedorlaomer / Kedorlaomer? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Lot in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about Genesis | GotQuestions.org

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