Tidal

Biblical Record

Tidal appears only in Genesis 14. Genesis 14:1 states that in the days of Abram (later Abraham) there were Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim. Genesis 14:9 records that these four kings fought in the Vale of Siddim against the five kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela (Zoar).

These two verses are the only places where Tidal is mentioned by name. The rest of the narrative refers collectively to "Chedorlaomer, and the kings that were with him." This coalition defeated the five kings and carried off the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, along with Lot, who was living in Sodom. Abram then led the trained servants born in his house in pursuit, chased the invaders as far as Hobah, north of Damascus, struck them down, and recovered Lot and the plundered goods (Genesis 14:14–16). The text says nothing further about Tidal's life or death.

Significance in the Bible

Tidal is one of the foreign kings who form the background to Abraham's rescue of Lot. This episode is followed by the scene in which Melchizedek blesses Abram (Genesis 14:18–20). The New Testament does not mention Tidal by name. However, when Hebrews 7:1 describes Melchizedek, it refers to the time when Abraham was "returning from the slaughter of the kings," and these "kings" include Tidal.

Interpretation and Debate

Goiim is a Hebrew word meaning "nations" or "Gentile peoples." Interpreters therefore differ over whether it should be read as the name of a particular country or as a designation for a king who ruled over several peoples. The King James Version renders the phrase "king of nations."

Some scholars connect the name Tidal with Tudhaliya, a name borne by several ancient Hittite kings. However, the identification of the biblical Tidal with any known historical figure has not been confirmed, and scholars also differ on the date of these events.

In the Korean Church

In Korean church preaching and Sunday school instruction, Genesis 14 is usually treated with a focus on Abraham's rescue of Lot or Melchizedek's blessing. Tidal is typically mentioned only by name as one of the four kings who appear in the story.