And the vale of Siddim was full of slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.
The valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and when the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah tried to escape the battle, they fell into these pits. The survivors who were left behind fled to the mountains.
This verse describes how the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah were trapped by natural tar pits during their retreat from battle, while other survivors escaped to higher ground.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during a war between four eastern kings and five kings from the Jordan River valley, including Sodom and Gomorrah. The valley of Siddim was located near the Dead Sea, an area known for its natural asphalt deposits and tar pits. This battle would lead to Lot's capture and Abraham's rescue mission.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.