In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaites in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzites in Ham, the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim, In the fourteenth yearThis phrase sets a specific historical context, indicating a precise time frame within the narrative. The "fourteenth year" refers to the period after the rebellion of the kings mentioned earlier in Genesis 14. This specificity underscores the historical nature of the events described, reminding us that the Bible often intertwines divine revelation with real-world history. The number fourteen, being twice seven, can also symbolize completeness or a double measure of divine intervention in biblical numerology. Chedorlaomer
Chedorlaomer is identified as the king of Elam and the leader of the coalition of kings. His name, of Elamite origin, suggests a historical figure of significant power and influence. Elam, located in present-day southwestern Iran, was a formidable ancient kingdom. Chedorlaomer's role as a central figure in this narrative highlights the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East and God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers. and the kings allied with him
This phrase indicates a coalition of rulers united under Chedorlaomer's leadership. The alliance of these kings suggests a formidable military force, emphasizing the scale of the conflict. In a broader theological context, it reflects the recurring biblical theme of human alliances and power structures, which often stand in contrast to God's ultimate authority and plan. went out and defeated
The action of "went out and defeated" conveys a sense of military campaign and conquest. This phrase underscores the might and aggression of Chedorlaomer's coalition. In the biblical narrative, such military actions often serve as a backdrop for God's intervention and the unfolding of His divine purposes, reminding believers of the transient nature of human power. the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim
The Rephaim are often described in the Bible as a race of giants or mighty warriors, suggesting formidable opponents. Ashteroth-karnaim, likely located in the region of Bashan, was a significant city. The defeat of the Rephaim here signifies the overwhelming power of Chedorlaomer's forces. Spiritually, it can symbolize the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable challenges through divine providence. the Zuzites in Ham
The Zuzites, also known as Zamzummim in Deuteronomy 2:20, were another group of ancient people, possibly giants. The location "Ham" is less certain but is thought to be in the Transjordan region. This victory further illustrates the extent of Chedorlaomer's campaign. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of God's control over all lands and peoples, regardless of their strength or reputation. the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim
The Emites, like the Rephaim and Zuzites, were considered a powerful people. Shaveh-kiriathaim is believed to be in the region of Moab. The mention of these specific groups and locations highlights the thoroughness of the conquest. In a spiritual sense, it reflects the comprehensive nature of God's plans, which encompass all nations and peoples, working through history to fulfill His purposes. Persons / Places / Events 1. KedorlaomerA king of Elam who led a coalition of kings in battle. His name is of Elamite origin, and he is a central figure in the military campaign described in Genesis 14. 2. RephaimA group of ancient people known for their great size and strength, often associated with giants. They were defeated in Ashteroth-karnaim. 3. Ashteroth-karnaimA location in Bashan, associated with the Rephaim. The name suggests a connection to the Canaanite goddess Ashtoreth. 4. ZuzitesAlso known as Zamzummim, another group of ancient people defeated by Kedorlaomer's coalition. They resided in Ham. 5. EmitesA people described as great and numerous, living in Shaveh-kiriathaim. They were also defeated by the coalition. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in HistoryThe defeat of these mighty peoples by Kedorlaomer's coalition demonstrates God's control over historical events. Even powerful nations and peoples are subject to His will. The Reality of Spiritual WarfareThe battles against the Rephaim, Zuzites, and Emites can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual battles. Believers are called to rely on God's strength to overcome spiritual giants in their lives. The Importance of AlliancesKedorlaomer's success was partly due to his alliances. In the Christian life, forming alliances with fellow believers can provide strength and support in spiritual battles. The Transience of Earthly PowerThe eventual defeat of Kedorlaomer's coalition (later in Genesis 14) reminds us that earthly power is temporary. True and lasting power belongs to God alone. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the defeat of the Rephaim, Zuzites, and Emites illustrate God's sovereignty over nations and peoples? 2. In what ways can the concept of spiritual warfare be applied to the challenges you face in your daily life? 3. How can forming alliances with other believers strengthen your spiritual journey, and what practical steps can you take to build such alliances? 4. Reflect on a time when you witnessed the transience of earthly power. How did this experience shape your understanding of God's eternal power? 5. How do the events of Genesis 14:5 connect with the broader account of God's plan for His people, as seen throughout the Bible? Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 2:10-11This passage provides additional context about the Rephaim, Zuzites, and Emites, describing them as giants and linking them to other ancient peoples. Joshua 12:4Mentions the Rephaim and their king Og, providing further historical context about these ancient peoples and their territories. Psalm 136:17-22Celebrates God's victories over mighty kings and peoples, echoing the theme of divine intervention in battles. People Abram, Amalekites, Amorites, Amraphel, Aner, Arioch, Bela, Bera, Birsha, Chedorlaomer, Dan, Elam, Emites, Eshcol, Ham, Horites, Lot, Mamre, Melchisedec, Melchizedek, Rephaites, Seir, Shemeber, Shinab, Tamar, Tidal, Zoar, Zuzims, ZuzitesPlaces Admah, Ashteroth-karnaim, Bela, Damascus, Dan, Elam, Ellasar, El-paran, En-mishpat, Gomorrah, Ham, Hazazon-tamar, Kadesh-barnea, King's Valley, Oaks of Mamre, Salem, Salt Sea, Seir, Shaveh-kiriathaim, Shinar, Sodom, Valley of Shaveh, Valley of Siddim, Zeboiim, ZoarTopics Allied, Ashteroth, Ashteroth-karnaim, Ash'teroth-karna'im, Chedorlaomer, Ched-or-lao'mer, Defeated, Emim, Emins, Emites, Fourteenth, Ham, Karnaim, Kedorlaomer, Kings, Kiriathaim, Overcame, Rephaim, Reph'aim, Rephaims, Rephaites, Shaveh, Shaveh-kiriathaim, Sha'veh-kiriatha'im, Shaveh-kirjathaim, Smite, Smote, Struck, Subdued, Zuzim, Zuzims, ZuzitesDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 14:1-24 4224 cities of the plain Genesis 14:5-6 5290 defeat Library An Example of Faith
'Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureJerusalem
The first name of this city was Shalem, Genesis 14:18, Psalm 76:2, and it is still retained in the writing, however it is read Jerushalaim. "The name of that place is Jehovah-jireh. Abraham called the place Jireh; Shem called it Shalem. Saith God, If I shall call it Jireh, it will displease Shem the Just; if I shall call it Shalem, it will displease Abraham the Just. I will therefore put that name upon it which was put upon it by both, Jireh, Shalem,--Jerusalem."--"We do not, therefore, put Jod between …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Meditations for Household Piety.
1. If thou be called to the government of a family, thou must not hold it sufficient to serve God and live uprightly in thy own person, unless thou cause all under thy charge to do the same with thee. For the performance of this duty God was so well pleased with Abraham, that he would not hide from him his counsel: "For," saith God, "I know him that he will command his sons and his household after him that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and judgment, that the Lord may bring upon …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Tithing
"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it" (Mal. 3:10). Down deep in the heart of every Christian there is undoubtedly the conviction that he ought to tithe. There is an uneasy feeling that this is a duty which has been neglected, or, if you prefer it, a privilege that has not been …
Arthur W. Pink—Tithing Bethphage
There is very frequent mention of this place in the Talmudists: and, certainly, a more careful comparison of the maps with those things which are said by them of the situation of this place is worthy to be made; when they place it in mount Olivet, these make it contiguous to the buildings of Jerusalem. I. In the place cited in the margin, the case "of a stubborn judge" (or elder) is handling. For when, by the prescript of the law, difficult matters, and such things as concerning which the lower councils …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
SYRIA AT THE BEGINNING OF THE EGYPTIAN CONQUEST NINEVEH AND THE FIRST COSSAEAN KINGS-THE PEOPLES OF SYRIA, THEIR TOWNS, THEIR CIVILIZATION, THEIR RELIGION-PHOENICIA. The dynasty of Uruazagga-The Cossseans: their country, their gods, their conquest of Chaldaea-The first sovereigns of Assyria, and the first Cossaean Icings: Agumhakrime. The Egyptian names for Syria: Khara, Zahi, Lotanu, Kefatiu-The military highway from the Nile to the Euphrates: first section from Zalu to Gaza-The Canaanites: …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 4 Moses and his Writings
[Illustration: (drop cap W) Clay letter tablet of Moses' time.] We now begin to understand a little of the very beginning of God's Book--of the times in which it was written, the materials used by its first author, and the different kinds of writing from which he had to choose; but we must go a step farther. How much did Moses know about the history of his forefathers, Abraham and Jacob, and of all the old nations and kings mentioned in Genesis, before God called him to the great work of writing …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Pioneer's Influence Upon a Nation's Ideals.
ABRAHAM, THE TRADITIONAL FATHER OF HIS RACE.--Gen. 12:1-8; 13:1-13; 16; 18, 19; 21:7; 22:1-19. Parallel Readings. Hist. Bible I, 73-94. Prin of Pol., 160-175. Jehovah said to Abraham, Go forth from thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, to the land that I will show thee, that I may make of thee a great nation; and I will surely bless thee, and make thy name great, so that thou shalt be a blessing, I will also bless them that bless thee, and him that curseth thee will …
Charles Foster Kent—The Making of a Nation The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
Syria: the part played by it in the ancient world--Babylon and the first Chaldaean empire--The dominion of the Hyksos: Ahmosis. Some countries seem destined from their origin to become the battle-fields of the contending nations which environ them. Into such regions, and to their cost, neighbouring peoples come from century to century to settle their quarrels and bring to an issue the questions of supremacy which disturb their little corner of the world. The nations around are eager for the possession …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 4 The Gospel Feast
"When Jesus then lifted up His eyes, and saw a great company come unto Him, He saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread that these may eat?"--John vi. 5. After these words the Evangelist adds, "And this He said to prove him, for He Himself knew what He would do." Thus, you see, our Lord had secret meanings when He spoke, and did not bring forth openly all His divine sense at once. He knew what He was about to do from the first, but He wished to lead forward His disciples, and to arrest and …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII The Promise to the Patriarchs.
A great epoch is, in Genesis, ushered in with the history of the time of the Patriarchs. Luther says: "This is the third period in which Holy Scripture begins the history of the Church with a new family." In a befitting manner, the representation is opened in Gen. xii. 1-3 by an account of the first revelation of God, given to Abraham at Haran, in which the way is opened up for all that follows, and in which the dispensations of God are brought before us in a rapid survey. Abraham is to forsake …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Tithing
There are few subjects on which the Lord's own people are more astray than on the subject of giving. They profess to take the Bible as their own rule of faith and practice, and yet in the matter of Christian finance, the vast majority have utterly ignored its plain teachings and have tried every substitute the carnal mind could devise; therefore it is no wonder that the majority of Christian enterprises in the world today are handicapped and crippled through the lack of funds. Is our giving to be …
Arthur W. Pink—Tithing The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
WHEREIN ITS GOODLY LIGHT, WALLS, GATES, ANGELS, AND THE MANNER OF THEIR STANDING, ARE EXPOUNDED: ALSO HER LENGTH AND BREADTH, TOGETHER WITH THE GOLDEN MEASURING-REED EXPLAINED: AND THE GLORY OF ALL UNFOLDED. AS ALSO THE NUMEROUSNESS OF ITS INHABITANTS; AND WHAT THE TREE AND WATER OF LIFE ARE, BY WHICH THEY ARE SUSTAINED. 'Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God.'-Psalm 87:3 'And the name of the city from that day shall be, THE LORD IS THERE.'-Ezekiel 48:35 London: Printed in the year 1665 …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Genesis
The Old Testament opens very impressively. In measured and dignified language it introduces the story of Israel's origin and settlement upon the land of Canaan (Gen.--Josh.) by the story of creation, i.-ii. 4a, and thus suggests, at the very beginning, the far-reaching purpose and the world-wide significance of the people and religion of Israel. The narrative has not travelled far till it becomes apparent that its dominant interests are to be religious and moral; for, after a pictorial sketch of …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Genesis 14:5 NIVGenesis 14:5 NLTGenesis 14:5 ESVGenesis 14:5 NASBGenesis 14:5 KJV
Genesis 14:5 Commentaries
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