Zoar
LocationsGeographical Setting
Zoar, also known as Bela, was a small city in the southern Jordan Valley identified with the ancient Nabataean city of Petra.
What is the meaning of Zoar in the Bible?
Zoar, originally called Bela, was a city in the southern Jordan Valley to which Lot fled from Sodom; its name derives from a root meaning 'small,' reflecting its modest size which may have contributed to its preservation during the destruction of the surrounding region.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Zoar with Petra helps readers visualize the geographical setting of the biblical narrative, illustrating the topographical context of Lot's escape and the extent of the devastation described in Genesis.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Zoar in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zoar clarify?
Related Topics
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.