Bible Dictionary
Birsha
Birsha was the king of Gomorrah who joined the alliance against Chedorlaomer and was defeated in Abraham’s rescue campaign.
Definition
Birsha was the king of Gomorrah. His name is explained as “son of wickedness” or “son of godlessness,” though the supplied material also says that the name may be corrupt.
Biblical Usage
Birsha joined the league of kings against Chedorlaomer. He was defeated during the campaign in which Abraham assisted those attacked by the invading forces.
Historical Background
Birsha ruled Gomorrah during the alliance of kings described in Genesis. The proposed explanation of his name as “with wickedness” may reflect the writer’s characterization of the king.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Son of wickedness, a king of Gomorrah whom Abraham succoured in the invasion of Chedorlaomer (Gen. 14:2).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(son of godlessness), a king of Gomorrah. (Genesis 14:2)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>bur'-sha (birsha`): King of Gomorrah (Ge 14:2), who joined the league against Chedorlaomer. The name is probably corrupt; some have tried to explain it as beresha`, "with wickedness," a name purposely used by the writer in referring to this king.</p>