Genesis 18:29 Meaning and Explanation
“And he spake unto him yet again, and said, Peradventure there shall be forty found there. And he said, I will not do it for forty's sake.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham proposes forty righteous as sufficient to spare the city, and the LORD agrees.
The Context of Genesis 18:29
Abraham negotiates down to forty righteous.
What Does Genesis 18:29 Mean?
The negotiation intensifies as Abraham continues proposing lower numbers. Each agreement emboldened him to ask again. The pattern shows Abraham testing the limits of divine mercy while the LORD grants each petition.
Abraham's repeated 'Peradventure' shows ongoing uncertainty about whether righteous people actually exist in Sodom. Yet his persistence suggests he believes the principle is sound: even a small number of righteous deserve consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 18:29
What does Genesis 18:29 mean?
Abraham proposes forty righteous as sufficient to spare the city, and the LORD agrees.
What is the context of Genesis 18:29?
Abraham negotiates down to forty righteous.