Genesis 18:24 Meaning and Explanation
“Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham proposes that if fifty righteous people exist in the city, the LORD should spare it for their sake.
The Context of Genesis 18:24
Abraham proposes fifty righteous as grounds for sparing the city.
What Does Genesis 18:24 Mean?
Abraham's petition offers a specific scenario: if fifty righteous people can be found, should not the entire city be spared for their sake? He appeals to the principle that righteousness should preserve a community from judgment.
The formulation 'peradventure' (perhaps) shows Abraham's hesitation—he may doubt whether fifty righteous people actually exist in Sodom, yet he proposes the scenario as a just standard. He is engaging in negotiation, testing the bounds of divine mercy.
Genesis 18:24 in the Original Language
alay (עֲלַי), 'destroy'—to sweep away or annihilate; Abraham uses the term to discuss the complete destruction he fears.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 18:24
What does Genesis 18:24 mean?
Abraham proposes that if fifty righteous people exist in the city, the LORD should spare it for their sake.
What is the context of Genesis 18:24?
Abraham proposes fifty righteous as grounds for sparing the city.