Topical Encyclopedia Am'raphel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is identified as the king of Shinar, a region often associated with ancient Babylonia. Am'raphel's role in the biblical narrative is primarily linked to the events described in Genesis 14, which recounts the war of the kings.Biblical Account In Genesis 14:1-2 , Am'raphel is listed among a coalition of four kings: "In those days Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim went to war against Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar)." This coalition of kings, led by Chedorlaomer, waged war against the cities of the plain, including Sodom and Gomorrah. The narrative continues with the rebellion of the five kings of the plain against Chedorlaomer's coalition, which had subjugated them for twelve years. In the thirteenth year, the kings of the plain rebelled, prompting Chedorlaomer and his allies, including Am'raphel, to launch a military campaign to suppress the rebellion. The coalition of four kings defeated the five kings of the plain in the Valley of Siddim, which is described as being full of tar pits (Genesis 14:10). Historical and Cultural Context The identification of Am'raphel as the king of Shinar places him in a region that is historically significant in the ancient Near East. Shinar is often equated with Sumer or southern Mesopotamia, an area known for its early development of civilization, including the invention of writing and the establishment of city-states. The historical identity of Am'raphel has been the subject of scholarly debate. Some have attempted to link him with historical figures from Mesopotamian records, though no definitive identification has been made. The name Am'raphel itself does not have a clear etymology, adding to the challenges of historical correlation. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the account of Am'raphel and the war of the kings serves to highlight the broader narrative of God's providence and protection over Abram (later Abraham) and his family. After the defeat of the kings of the plain, Lot, Abram's nephew, was taken captive. Abram, upon hearing of Lot's capture, mustered his trained men and pursued the coalition of kings, ultimately defeating them and rescuing Lot (Genesis 14:14-16). This event underscores the theme of divine intervention and the faithfulness of God to His covenant people. Abram's victory over the coalition of powerful kings is seen as a testament to God's favor and the fulfillment of His promises to Abram. Am'raphel in Tradition In Jewish tradition, Am'raphel is sometimes identified with Nimrod, a mighty hunter and ruler mentioned earlier in Genesis (Genesis 10:8-10). This identification is not explicitly stated in the biblical text but reflects the interpretive traditions that sought to connect various figures within the biblical narrative. Overall, Am'raphel's mention in the Bible, though brief, is part of a larger account that illustrates the unfolding of God's plan and the establishment of His covenant with Abram, which would have lasting implications for the history of Israel and the world. Concordance Am'raphel (2 Occurrences)Genesis 14:1 Genesis 14:9 Thesaurus Am'raphel (2 Occurrences)Am'raphel. Amraphel, Am'raphel. Amulet . Multi-Version Concordance Am'raphel (2 Occurrences). Genesis 14:1 It happened in the days ... /a/am'raphel.htm - 6k Amraphel (2 Occurrences) Amulet Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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