What does Genesis 14:1 mean?

The first part of Genesis 14 describes battles between various nations and city-states in and around the land of Canaan. It gives us a glimpse into the world at the time of Abram. Verse 1 lists four kings who became allies in a war against another group of kings. Some of the names and places listed may be connected to names mentioned in other historical records from this time.

Amraphel was king of Shinar, also known as Babylonia. Chedorlaomer (or Kedorlaomer) was king of Elam, east of Shinar. The location of the other two places are not now known, but were likely also to the east of the land of Canaan. The dispute seems to be over who has ultimate control of the territory. At this time in history, control over a territory had more to do with taxes and trade than direct influence. The rebellion of these kings will take time to correct (Genesis 14:4–5).