Genesis 18:21 Meaning and Explanation
“I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The LORD will investigate the cities to confirm whether their deeds match the accusations.
The Context of Genesis 18:21
The LORD prepares to investigate the cities personally.
What Does Genesis 18:21 Mean?
The language 'go down' is anthropomorphic—describing God as if He must investigate like a human judge. Yet it communicates an important truth: judgment is not hastily rendered but based on full knowledge and investigation.
The conditional structure—'if not, I will know'—suggests divine investigation will be thorough. The LORD will examine whether the reported sins are real and warrant the judgment being considered.
Genesis 18:21 in the Original Language
yaredu (יָרְדוּ), 'go down'—to descend, often describing movement from heaven to earth or from higher to lower places.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 18:21
What does Genesis 18:21 mean?
The LORD will investigate the cities to confirm whether their deeds match the accusations.
What is the context of Genesis 18:21?
The LORD prepares to investigate the cities personally.