אַמְרָפֶל (am.ra.phel)
am.ra.phel
Amraphel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Amraphel appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in Genesis 14:1 and 14:9 as the ruler of Shinar. This title identifies him as a significant political figure during the era of the Patriarchs, specifically in the context of a military conflict involving Abraham’s nephew Lot.
While the text itself does not explain the etymology, traditional interpretations often link the name to meanings such as "sayer of darkness" or associate it with historical figures like Hammurabi. Shinar is widely recognized by scholars as an ancient biblical term for Babylon, placing Amraphel in a powerful Mesopotamian role that contrasts with the nomadic lifestyle of Abraham’s family.
His brief mention serves to establish the geopolitical landscape of the time, showing that even early in Genesis, local kings held considerable authority. The narrative uses his character to highlight God’s protection over Abraham’s household against a coalition of powerful rulers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Amraphel appears only twice in Scripture, yet his name anchors a pivotal moment in Genesis 14. He is listed alongside three other rulers as king of Shinar, a region scholars widely associate with ancient Babylon. In the narrative, he leads a coalition of four kings against five others, capturing Lot and taking his goods. This brief mention places Abraham’s family within a complex geopolitical landscape where powerful empires held sway.
For believers today, this account offers a quiet reassurance. The text does not dwell on Amraphel’s character or motives but uses his power to highlight God’s protection over His people. Even when surrounded by formidable opposition and political turmoil, the covenant family remains under divine care. The story reminds us that human authority is temporary, while God’s faithfulness endures through every generation.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Amraphel1×
- Amraphel1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/אַמְרָפֶל֙1×
- אַמְרָפֶ֣ל1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 14:1
In the days of Amraphel, king of Shinar; Arioch, king of Ellasar; Chedorlaomer, king of Elam; and Tidal, king of Goiim,
This verse introduces Amraphel as a primary political figure in the opening scene, establishing the historical setting before the conflict begins.
-
Genesis 14:9
against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goiim, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar; four kings against the five.
Here the text explicitly contrasts the military strength of four kings against five, underscoring the overwhelming odds Abraham’s nephew faced.