Bible Dictionary
Bela
Bela is the name of several biblical figures and a place: Zoar, a city spared from Sodom’s destruction; a son of Benjamin; an early king of Edom; and a descendant of Reuben.
Definition
Bela is the name of several biblical persons and of a city also called Zoar. The city stood near Sodom and was spared when the other cities were destroyed. Other Belas included Benjamin’s eldest son, an early king of Edom, and a son of Azaz.
Biblical Usage
Bela appears in genealogical and royal notices. The city Bela, or Zoar, is included in the account of Lot and the destruction near Sodom.
Historical Background
The name is explained as “a thing swallowed” or “destruction.” The identification of Bela with Zoar is given in the supplied material.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A thing swallowed. (1.) A city on the shore of the Dead Sea, not far from Sodom, called also Zoar. It was the only one of the five cities that was spared at Lot’s intercession (Gen. 19:20, 23). It is first mentioned in Gen. 14:2, 8. (2.) The eldest son of Benjamin (Num. 26:38; “Belah,” Gen. 46:21). (3.) The son of Beor, and a king of Edom (Gen. 36:32, 33; 1 Chr. 1:43). (4.) A son of Azaz (1 Chr. 5:8).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(destruction).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>be'-la.</p><p>See ZOAR.</p>