Genesis 18:31 (KJV)

What does Genesis 18:31 mean?

Genesis 18:31 shows Abraham respectfully asking God if He would spare the city of Sodom if only twenty righteous people could be found there, and God agrees not to destroy the city for the sake of those twenty. This verse highlights Abraham’s humble persistence and God’s willingness to listen and show mercy.

In this scene, Abraham is speaking directly to God, continuing a conversation where he is interceding for the people of Sodom. Abraham carefully lowers the number of righteous people needed to save the city, showing both his concern for others and his respectful boldness in speaking with God. The verse is part of a larger passage where Abraham negotiates with God, revealing both the seriousness of Sodom’s situation and the compassionate character of God in response.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 18:31

• The word for "Lord" here is אֲדֹנָי (’adonai), which is a respectful title for God, emphasizing Abraham’s reverence as he speaks.
• The Hebrew word for "destroy" is שָׁחַת (shachath), which often means to ruin or lay waste, underlining the severity of what Abraham is pleading to prevent.
• The word for "twenty" is עֶשְׂרִים (esrim), showing the specific number Abraham is now asking about, as he continues to lower the threshold in his appeal for mercy.

Why Genesis 18:31 matters

• This verse clarifies that Abraham is not challenging God, but humbly and persistently appealing for mercy, which helps readers see the respectful tone of his request.
• Genesis 18:31 emphasizes the idea that even a small group of righteous people can have a significant impact on God’s actions toward a whole community.
• The verse connects to the larger story of Abraham’s intercession, highlighting both the seriousness of Sodom’s condition and the patience and fairness of God in responding to human pleas.