Birsha
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Birsha in the Bible?
Birsha was the king of Sodom who participated in the coalition of kings that rebelled against Chedorlaomer's tributary rule. The etymology of his name is uncertain, though some scholars suggest it may carry a pejorative connotation within the biblical narrative.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Birsha's role clarifies the political dynamics of the ancient Near East, specifically illustrating the tension between local Canaanite city-states and the imperial authority of Elam and its allies, which sets the stage for the biblical account of Abraham's military intervention.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.