Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was the king of Sedom mentioned in Genesis 14:17?
A: The king of Sedom was the ruler of the city of Sedom (Sodom), one of the five cities in the plain of the Jordan River. According to Rashi, Sedom was known for its wickedness, and its king came out to meet Avraham after Avraham's victory in the battle against the four kings.
Q: Why did the king of Sedom come out to meet Avraham?
A: The king of Sedom came to thank Avraham for rescuing the people and possessions of Sedom after their defeat by Kedorla'omer and his allies (Rashi, Genesis 14:17). This meeting also set the stage for Avraham's refusal to take any spoils, demonstrating his righteousness and trust in Hashem.
Q: What is the significance of the 'Valley of Shave' (Emek Shaveh) in this verse?
A: The Valley of Shave, also called 'the king’s dale,' was a meeting place near Jerusalem. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 43:5) explains that it was called 'Shaveh' (meaning 'equal') because all kings would gather there as equals. This location highlights the importance of Avraham’s victory, as even kings came to honor him.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham's encounter with the king of Sedom?
A: Avraham’s refusal to take any reward from the king of Sedom (later in the chapter) teaches us the importance of integrity and reliance on Hashem rather than material gain. The Rambam (Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 10:2) emphasizes that Avraham’s actions set an example of avoiding dependency on others' wealth.
Q: How does this verse connect to Avraham's earlier battle with the four kings?
A: This verse follows Avraham’s miraculous victory over the four powerful kings who had captured his nephew Lot. The king of Sedom’s appearance shows that Avraham’s victory was recognized even by foreign rulers, reinforcing the idea that Hashem protected Avraham in battle (Ramban, Genesis 14:17).
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 14:17) describes the aftermath of Avraham Avinu's victory over the four kings, including Kedorla'omer, who had captured his nephew Lot. The king of Sedom comes to greet Avraham in the Valley of Shaveh, also known as the "King's Valley." This event occurs after Avraham's miraculous military success, demonstrating Hashem's protection and fulfillment of His promises.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the Valley of Shaveh is called "the King's Valley" because it was a place where kings would convene and make treaties. Additionally, he notes that the name "Shaveh" (שָׁוֵה) means "equal," suggesting that all kings were equal there—no one held superiority over another in that location. This underscores the significance of the meeting between Avraham and the king of Sedom as a diplomatic encounter.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 43:5) elaborates that the Valley of Shaveh was a place where kings would settle disputes peacefully, reinforcing the idea of equality among rulers. The Midrash also connects this valley to future events, suggesting it was the same location where King David would later encounter Malki-Tzedek (identified by Chazal as Shem, son of Noach). This linkage highlights the ongoing sanctity of the site in Jewish tradition.
Rambam's Perspective
While Rambam does not directly comment on this verse, his teachings on hashgachah pratit (Divine Providence) are relevant. Avraham's victory over the four kings was not merely a military achievement but a demonstration of Hashem's direct involvement in the lives of the righteous. The king of Sedom's approach to Avraham acknowledges this Divine intervention, setting the stage for Avraham's refusal to take spoils (as seen in the following verses) to avoid any perception that his wealth came from human hands rather than Hashem.
Symbolism of the King's Valley
Avraham's Leadership
The encounter highlights Avraham's unique leadership. Unlike the king of Sedom, who represents materialism and corruption (as later seen in Sedom's destruction), Avraham embodies righteousness and reliance on Hashem. His refusal to accept even "a thread or a shoelace" (Bereshit 14:23) from the king of Sedom reinforces his commitment to spiritual integrity over worldly gain.