Topical Encyclopedia Bela, later known as Zoar, is a city mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of the narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah. It is one of the five cities of the plain, often referred to as the "cities of the plain" or "Pentapolis," which included Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela (Zoar). The city is significant in biblical history due to its association with the account of Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 14:2 · Bela is first mentioned in the context of a coalition of kings. "These kings 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 passage highlights Bela's political alliances and its role in the regional conflicts of the time. 2. Genesis 19:20-23 · The city gains prominence in the narrative of Lot's escape from Sodom. Lot pleads with the angels to allow him to flee to Zoar instead of the mountains, saying, "Look, this town is near enough for me to flee to, and it is small. Let me flee there—is it not a small place? Then my life will be saved." The angels grant his request, and Lot reaches Zoar as the sun rises, just before the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. 3. Genesis 19:30 · After the destruction, Lot and his daughters leave Zoar and settle in the mountains, indicating that Zoar was spared from the divine judgment that befell the other cities. "Lot and his two daughters left Zoar and settled in the mountains, for he was afraid to stay in Zoar." Historical and Geographical Context: Bela, or Zoar, is traditionally identified with a location near the southeastern shore of the Dead Sea. Its exact location remains a subject of debate among scholars and archaeologists. The city's survival during the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is attributed to Lot's intercession and the divine mercy shown to him and his family. Theological Significance: The account of Bela (Zoar) underscores themes of divine judgment and mercy. While the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah are destroyed due to their wickedness, Zoar is spared, highlighting God's willingness to save the righteous and those who seek refuge in Him. Lot's plea and the subsequent sparing of Zoar illustrate the power of intercession and the importance of obedience to divine instruction. Later References: Zoar is mentioned in later biblical texts, including Isaiah 15:5 and Jeremiah 48:34, in the context of prophecies against Moab. These references suggest that Zoar continued to exist as a notable city in the region long after the events of Genesis. In summary, Bela, also known as Zoar, serves as a testament to God's judgment and mercy, playing a crucial role in the narrative of Lot and the destruction of the cities of the plain. Its sparing from destruction serves as a reminder of the protection offered to those who seek refuge in the Lord. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 14:2,8That these 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, which is Zoar. Nave's Topical Index Library The History after the Flood. Chapter xiv Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources Who was Lot in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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