Genesis 14:10

Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)

In die Siddim-vallei was daar gate in die grond, en daar het teer uit die gate gekom. Die konings van Sodom en Gomorra het gevlug en hulle het in die gate geval. Die soldate wat oorgebly het, het na die berge gevlug.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes the battle between several kings and the defeat of the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah. They fled into the valley of Siddim, which was filled with slime pits, and some fell into them while others escaped to the mountains. No one is speaking directly in this verse, but the key message is the dire consequences of the battle.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a big game of tag in the playground. Suddenly, some kids from another team chase you and your friends into a place full of mud puddles. Some of you slip and fall into the mud, while others run to the safety of the jungle gym. This verse is like that, but with kings and big mud pits instead of kids and puddles.

Historical Background

Genesis was written by Moses around 1440-1400 BCE. The audience was the Israelites, and the cultural setting was the early period of Israelite history. This passage describes a significant historical event that illustrates the power struggles in the ancient Near East.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us that fleeing from our problems can sometimes lead to worse situations. For example, if you avoid confronting a difficult situation at work, you might find yourself in a worse position later. It's important to face challenges head-on rather than trying to escape them.

Topics

• war
• consequences
• flight
• safety
• judgment
• history

Related Verses

• Genesis 19:24
• Deuteronomy 29:23
• Job 19:28
• Isaiah 1:9
• Luke 17:29

Frequently Asked Questions

What are slime pits?

Slime pits, or bitumen pits, are natural pools of sticky, gooey oil-like substance. In this context, they were likely obstacles that trapped the fleeing kings.

What does this verse tell us about the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah?

This verse shows that the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah were defeated and fled from the battle, facing dire consequences including falling into slime pits.

Why did they flee to the mountain?

The kings who were able to avoid falling into the slime pits likely fled to the mountains for safety, as elevated ground often provides a strategic advantage and refuge.

How does this relate to the broader story of Genesis?

This event is part of a larger narrative that sets the stage for the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, highlighting the wickedness and consequences faced by those cities.