Amraphel
malePatriarchalMeaning: “Keeper of the gods”
The king of Shinar, one of the four-king coalition led by Chedorlaomer against the cities of the plain in the days of Abraham.
Biography
Amraphel was the king of Shinar (Babylonia), one of the four eastern kings who marched with Chedorlaomer of Elam against the rebellious cities of the Jordan plain (Genesis 14:1, 9). Though listed first among the coalition, he served under Chedorlaomer's leadership. The campaign's plundering of Sodom — and the capture of Lot — provoked Abraham's bold rescue and his subsequent blessing by Melchizedek.
Life Timeline
Joins the coalition against the cities of the plain
On the Bible timeline
Amraphel belongs to the The Patriarchs era (c. 2100 – 1800 BC).
- c. 2091 BCThe Call of Abraham
- c. 1898 BCJoseph Sold into Egypt
Themes & lessons from Amraphel
Biblical themes that run through the passages where Amraphel appears.
People they appear with
Places in their story
Scripture Appearances
2 verses in 1 bookGenesis2 verses
Genesis 14:1
And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of nations;
Genesis 14:9
With Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, and with Tidal king of nations, and Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar; four kings with five.
Frequently asked about Amraphel
Who was Amraphel in the Bible?
The king of Shinar, one of the four-king coalition led by Chedorlaomer against the cities of the plain in the days of Abraham.
What does the name Amraphel mean?
The name Amraphel means “Keeper of the gods”.
What did Amraphel do in the Bible?
Amraphel served as king of shinar.
Where does Amraphel appear in the Bible?
Amraphel is mentioned 2 times across 1 book: Genesis.
What can we learn from Amraphel?
The story of Amraphel touches on themes of chedorlaomer, sodom, abraham, armies — explore each to study the lessons drawn from Amraphel's life.
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