Genesis 14:10 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The defeated Canaanite kings flee in panic, with some falling into slimepits while others escape to the hills.
The Context of Genesis 14:10
The battle is decisively lost as the defeated kings flee in disarray.
What Does Genesis 14:10 Mean?
The geography of the valley of Siddim, characterized by natural tar or bitumen pits, becomes a factor in the defeat. As the five kings attempt to retreat from the superior forces of the coalition, the difficult terrain itself becomes their enemy. Some fall into these slimepits in the chaos of flight, while others manage to escape toward higher ground where they might regroup or find refuge.
This verse emphasizes how quickly the tide turns against the Canaanite forces. What began as a unified defense collapses into a rout, with the kings individually seeking escape rather than maintaining organized resistance. The terrain that defines the valley of Siddim transforms from merely geographical to actively destructive, adding another layer to the catastrophic defeat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 14:10
What does Genesis 14:10 mean?
The defeated Canaanite kings flee in panic, with some falling into slimepits while others escape to the hills.
What is the context of Genesis 14:10?
The battle is decisively lost as the defeated kings flee in disarray.