Genesis 14:1-12
Summary for Gen 14:1-16: 14:1-16 a In this skirmish typical of ancient politics, powerful kings formed a coalition to subjugate smaller vassal states.Summary for Gen 14:1-2: 14:1-2 b Archaeology has not identified these kings, but similar names from antiquity corroborate the report’s accuracy. The Mesopotamian kings were confederates under a suzerain, apparently Amraphel, who is mentioned first. 14:1 c Tidal apparently ruled a number of city-states (Goiim, literally nations).
Summary for Gen 14:4-5: 14:4-5 d This was Kedorlaomer’sChedorlaomer’s war. Under the feudal system of tribal affiliations, those in covenant with him had to fight. It was also Abram’s battle to rescue Lot, and those under treaty with him had to accompany him. 14:4 e King Kedorlaomer apparently defeated the Siddim Valley kings at an earlier time and put them under tribute for asphalt, olive oil, and copper. In the thirteenth year they refused to send it; in the fourteenth year (14:5 f), the invaders returned to subjugate them again.
Summary for Gen 14:5-8: 14:5-8 g The invaders came down the King’s Highway on the east side of the Jordan Valley to the Gulf of Aqaba, then circled back to the valley of the Dead Sea.
Summary for Gen 14:8-12: 14:8-12 h The five cities of the plain were close together at the south end of the Dead Sea. The Mesopotamian kings defeated the frail uprising, looted the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and carried off Lot with the other captives.
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