The King of Admah is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the context of the early narratives of the Book of Genesis. Admah was one of the five cities of the plain, which also included Sodom, Gomorrah, Zeboiim, and Zoar. These cities are often associated with the account of their destruction due to their wickedness, as recounted in Genesis 19.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the King of Admah is found in Genesis 14, which describes the battle of the kings. This chapter details a coalition of four eastern kings led by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, who waged war against the five kings of the cities of the plain, including the King of Admah. Genesis 14:2 states: "they 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)."

The narrative continues to describe how these five kings, including the King of Admah, joined forces in the Valley of Siddim (the Salt Sea) to confront the invading coalition. However, they were defeated, and the victors seized all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, taking Lot, Abram's nephew, captive. This event prompted Abram to mount a successful rescue operation, as described in Genesis 14:14-16.

Historical and Theological Context:

The King of Admah, like the other kings of the cities of the plain, is not extensively detailed in the biblical text. The focus of the narrative is more on the broader geopolitical dynamics and the role of Abram in rescuing Lot. The mention of these kings serves to set the stage for the unfolding of God's covenantal relationship with Abram and the eventual judgment upon the cities of the plain.

From a theological perspective, the account of the King of Admah and the other kings highlights themes of divine justice and mercy. The defeat of the kings of the plain and the subsequent rescue by Abram underscore God's providential care for His chosen people. Furthermore, the eventual destruction of Admah and its neighboring cities in Genesis 19 serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the righteousness of God's judgment.

Archaeological and Geographical Considerations:

The exact location of Admah remains uncertain, as is the case with the other cities of the plain. Some scholars suggest that these cities were located near the southern end of the Dead Sea, based on biblical descriptions and archaeological evidence. However, definitive identification has proven elusive, and much of the region's ancient history remains shrouded in mystery.

In summary, the King of Admah is a minor yet significant figure within the Genesis narrative, representing the broader themes of conflict, divine intervention, and judgment that permeate the early chapters of the Bible.