Topical Encyclopedia Bera, the king of Sodom, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis. His reign is noted during the time of Abram (later Abraham), and he is primarily recognized for his involvement in the events surrounding the Battle of the Valley of Siddim. This battle is a significant episode in the narrative of the patriarchs, illustrating the geopolitical dynamics of the region and the divine intervention in the affairs of men.Biblical Account Bera is introduced in Genesis 14, where he is listed among the kings who joined forces to rebel against Chedorlaomer, the king of Elam. The coalition of rebelling kings included Bera, along with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar). These five kings served Chedorlaomer for twelve years but rebelled in the thirteenth year (Genesis 14:1-4). The conflict culminated in the fourteenth year when Chedorlaomer and his allies came to suppress the rebellion. The ensuing battle took place in the Valley of Siddim, which is described as being full of tar pits. During the battle, the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and some of their men fell into the tar pits, while others fled to the hills (Genesis 14:8-10). Interaction with Abram Following the battle, the victors seized all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, including Lot, Abram's nephew, who was living in Sodom at the time. When Abram learned of Lot's capture, he mobilized 318 trained men from his household and pursued the invaders as far as Dan. Abram's successful night attack led to the recovery of Lot, his possessions, and the people taken captive (Genesis 14:11-16). After Abram's victory, Bera, the king of Sodom, went out to meet him in the Valley of Shaveh, also known as the King's Valley. It is here that Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, blessed Abram. In a notable exchange, Bera offered Abram the recovered goods, requesting only the return of his people. However, Abram refused to take anything from Bera, declaring, "I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, that I will not accept even a thread or a strap of a sandal or anything that belongs to you, lest you should say, 'I have made Abram rich'" (Genesis 14:22-23). Abram's refusal underscored his reliance on God's provision and his desire to avoid any appearance of being indebted to the king of Sodom. Historical and Theological Significance Bera's role in the biblical narrative highlights the moral and spiritual decline of Sodom, a city later known for its wickedness and eventual destruction by divine judgment (Genesis 19). The interaction between Bera and Abram serves as a contrast between the values of the world, represented by the king of Sodom, and the faithfulness of Abram, who sought to honor God above all else. The account of Bera and the Battle of the Valley of Siddim provides insight into the ancient Near Eastern context, illustrating the complex relationships between city-states and the influence of powerful regional kings like Chedorlaomer. It also sets the stage for the unfolding account of God's covenant with Abram, through whom all nations would be blessed. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 14:2That 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 Strong's Hebrew 1298. Bera -- a king of Sodom... 1297, 1298. Bera. 1299 . a king of Sodom. Transliteration: Bera Phonetic Spelling: (beh'-rah) Short Definition: Bera. Word Origin ... /hebrew/1298.htm - 5k Library The History after the Flood. Chapter xiv Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |