Genesis 18:25 Meaning and Explanation
“That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham affirms that God, as the judge of all the earth, must act righteously by distinguishing the innocent from the guilty.
The Context of Genesis 18:25
Abraham's passionate appeal to God's justice.
What Does Genesis 18:25 Mean?
Abraham's statement expresses a core conviction: the judge of all the earth must do right (act justly). To slay the righteous with the wicked violates justice itself. This appeals to God's own nature—He cannot act contrary to righteousness without contradicting Himself.
The phrase 'Judge of all the earth' is significant. Abraham invokes God's universal role as judge, suggesting that if God permits the righteous to perish with the wicked, His justice is compromised before all creation.
Genesis 18:25 in the Original Language
Shopet (שׁוֹפֵט), 'Judge'—one who judges, deciding cases and determining right from wrong with authority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 18:25
What does Genesis 18:25 mean?
Abraham affirms that God, as the judge of all the earth, must act righteously by distinguishing the innocent from the guilty.
What is the context of Genesis 18:25?
Abraham's passionate appeal to God's justice.