Topical Encyclopedia Zoar, a city mentioned in the Bible, holds a significant place in the narrative of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Its name, meaning "small" or "insignificant" in Hebrew, reflects its status as a minor city compared to its more infamous neighbors. Zoar is first introduced in the context of the cities of the plain, which were subject to divine judgment due to their wickedness.Biblical References and Historical Context Zoar is prominently featured in the account of Lot, Abraham's nephew, who resided in Sodom. As God prepared to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah for their grievous sins, He sent angels to rescue Lot and his family. In Genesis 19:20-22 , 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 small? Then my life will be saved." The angels grant his request, and Zoar becomes a place of refuge for Lot and his daughters. Zoar's location is traditionally associated with the southeastern region of the Dead Sea, near the Jordan River. This geographical setting places it within the territory historically linked to the Moabites, descendants of Lot through his elder daughter. The Moabites, often in conflict with Israel, were a people with whom the Israelites had complex interactions throughout biblical history. Role in Biblical Events Zoar's role as a place of refuge is further underscored by its mention in the narrative of the destruction of the cities of the plain. As fire and brimstone rained down from heaven, Zoar was spared, highlighting God's mercy in response to Lot's plea. This act of divine grace allowed Lot and his daughters to escape the catastrophic judgment that befell Sodom and Gomorrah. In later biblical references, Zoar is mentioned in the context of the Moabite territory. Isaiah 15:5 refers to Zoar in a prophecy against Moab, indicating its continued existence and significance in the region: "My heart cries out for Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, as far as Eglath-shelishiyah." Cultural and Theological Significance Zoar's narrative underscores themes of divine judgment and mercy. The city's preservation amidst widespread destruction serves as a testament to God's willingness to spare the righteous, even in the midst of judgment. Lot's escape to Zoar illustrates the importance of obedience and the consequences of hesitation, as seen in the fate of Lot's wife, who looked back and became a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). Theologically, Zoar represents a place of refuge and a symbol of God's provision for those who seek His protection. Its account is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the consequences of moral decay, as exemplified by the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. In summary, Zoar's biblical narrative provides insight into the dynamics of divine justice and mercy, the historical interactions between Israel and Moab, and the enduring lessons of faith and obedience. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 13:10And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as you come to Zoar. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xiv Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources What is the significance of Mount Nebo in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Lot in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Moabites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |