The King of Gomorrah is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the events surrounding the cities of the plain, particularly in the narrative of Genesis. Gomorrah, along with Sodom, is one of the infamous cities known for its wickedness and subsequent divine judgment.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 14:2 · The King of Gomorrah is first mentioned in the account of the war of the kings. "These kings 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)." In this passage, the King of Gomorrah is part of a coalition of five kings who rebel against Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies.

2. Genesis 14:8-10 · The narrative continues with the battle in the Valley of Siddim. "Then the king of Sodom, the king of Gomorrah, the king of Admah, the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar) marched out and arrayed themselves for battle in the Valley of Siddim against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goiim, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar—four kings against five. Now the Valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and as the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some men fell into them, but the rest fled to the hills." This passage highlights the defeat of the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, leading to their flight and the capture of their cities.

3. Genesis 19:24-25 · Although the King of Gomorrah is not directly mentioned in this passage, the fate of the city is sealed. "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground." This divine judgment is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the moral corruption of Gomorrah and its king.

Historical and Theological Context:

The King of Gomorrah, like the other kings of the cities of the plain, is depicted as a ruler of a city characterized by profound moral decay. The biblical account does not provide extensive details about the individual king's actions or character, but the collective identity of Gomorrah as a city of sin is well established. The narrative of Genesis 14 serves to illustrate the geopolitical dynamics of the region, while Genesis 19 underscores the theological theme of divine justice.

The destruction of Gomorrah, along with Sodom, serves as a powerful symbol of God's judgment against sin and unrighteousness. The account is often referenced in later biblical texts as a warning against immorality and a call to righteousness. The King of Gomorrah, as a representative of his city, is thus part of a larger narrative that highlights the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Cultural and Archaeological Insights:

While the exact historical and archaeological details of Gomorrah remain a subject of debate, the biblical account has left a lasting impact on Judeo-Christian thought. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah have become synonymous with divine retribution and moral failure. Archaeological efforts have sought to locate these ancient cities, with some scholars suggesting sites near the Dead Sea as potential candidates.

In summary, the King of Gomorrah is a figure enmeshed in the broader narrative of sin and judgment that characterizes the biblical portrayal of the cities of the plain. His account, though brief, is integral to understanding the moral and theological lessons conveyed in the Scriptures.