Genesis 14:4
What does Genesis 14:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Genesis 14:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Genesis 14:4 means
The five kings of the Jordan plain had been subservient to Chedorlaomer for twelve years, indicating a long period of tribute and subjugation. Their rebellion in the thirteenth year marks a pivotal moment, defying their overlord and setting in motion the military campaign that follows. This act of defiance explains why the eastern kings will mobilize against them, providing the motivation for the war and establishing the historical context for the coming conflict.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949For twelve years they were under the rule of Chedorlaomer, but in the thirteenth year they put off his control.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and the thirteenth year they rebelled.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For they had served Chodorlahomor twelve years, and in the thirteenth year they revolted from him.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Twelve years had they served Chedorlaomer; and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.
Context
This verse explains the underlying cause of the war: the rebellion of the five kings after twelve years of servitude to Chedorlaomer. This establishes the motive for the eastern kings' military action. It directly follows the introduction of the warring parties and their gathering place, preparing the reader for Chedorlaomer's punitive expedition.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Genesis 9:25
And he said, Cursed be Canaan; A servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren.
- Ezekiel 17:15
But he rebelled against him in sending his ambassadors into Egypt, that they might give him horses and much people. Shall he prosper? shall he escape that doeth such things? shall he break the covenant, and yet escape?
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