Zoar, a city mentioned in the Bible, holds a significant place in the narrative of the ancient Near East. It is one of the five cities of the plain, alongside Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, which were subject to divine judgment due to their wickedness. The city of Zoar, however, was spared from the destruction that befell its neighboring cities, as recorded in the book of Genesis.

Biblical References and Historical Context

Zoar is first mentioned in Genesis 13:10, where it is described as part of the fertile Jordan Valley, "like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt." This description highlights the region's prosperity and appeal, making it a desirable location for settlement. The city's original name was Bela, as noted in Genesis 14:2, but it later became known as Zoar, meaning "small" or "insignificant."

The most notable biblical event involving Zoar is the account of Lot, Abraham's nephew. In Genesis 19, God decides to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah due to their grievous sins. Lot and his family are warned by angels to flee the impending destruction. Lot pleads for the safety of Zoar, arguing that it is a small city and should be spared. The angels grant his request, and Lot and his daughters escape to Zoar, as recorded in Genesis 19:22: "Hurry, flee there quickly, for I cannot do anything until you reach it." Thus, Zoar becomes a place of refuge for Lot and his family.

Geographical and Archaeological Insights

The exact location of Zoar has been a subject of debate among scholars and archaeologists. Traditionally, it is believed to have been situated near the southeastern shore of the Dead Sea. Some suggest that the modern site of Safi in Jordan may correspond to ancient Zoar. The region is characterized by its arid climate and proximity to the mineral-rich Dead Sea, which aligns with the biblical description of the area.

Zoar in Later Biblical Texts

Zoar is mentioned again in the context of the Moabite territory. In Isaiah 15:5 and Jeremiah 48:34, the city is referenced in prophecies concerning Moab's destruction. These passages indicate that Zoar remained an inhabited and recognized location well into the prophetic period.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Zoar represents God's mercy and willingness to spare even a small remnant amidst judgment. The city's survival serves as a testament to divine grace, as Lot's plea for its preservation is honored. Zoar's narrative underscores the themes of refuge and deliverance, illustrating God's provision for those who seek His protection.

In summary, Zoar's biblical account provides insight into the dynamics of divine judgment and mercy. Its role as a place of refuge for Lot and his family highlights the city's significance within the broader narrative of God's interaction with humanity.Deuteronomy 34:3
And the south, and the plain of the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, to Zoar.
Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 15:5
My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives shall flee to Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction.
Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 48:34
From the cry of Heshbon even to Elealeh, and even to Jahaz, have they uttered their voice, from Zoar even to Horonaim, as an heifer of three years old: for the waters also of Nimrim shall be desolate.
Nave's Topical Index

The History after the Flood.
... were five other cities in the territory of Ham, the son of Noah; the first called
Sodom, then Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Balah, which was also called Zoar. ...
/.../theophilus/theophilus to autolycus/chapter xxxi the history after the.htm

Chapter xiv
... "Bela," or "Zoar," had best be placed at the southeast corner of the ... Since it lay
in Ammonite territory, it could well have been Rabba of the Ammonites (cf. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xiv.htm

The Importance of a Choice
... the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. ... fall out
with one another about intrusions on each other's territory, especially in ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the importance of a choice.htm

Prolegomena.
... metropolitan jurisdiction over the seven suffragan bishops of the Roman
territory"viz., those ... Even lawful marriage he seems to tolerate, as a Zoar of escape ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leo/writings of leo the great/prolegomena.htm

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