And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place:
GENESIS 19:12KJVWhat does Genesis 19:12 mean?
Genesis 19:12 shows the men (angels) telling Lot to gather any family or loved ones he has in the city—sons-in-law, sons, daughters, or anyone else—so they can leave the place. The warning is urgent, making it clear that everyone Lot cares about should be brought out of Sodom.
In this verse, the two men (who are actually angels) are speaking directly to Lot inside his house in Sodom. They ask if Lot has anyone else in the city—using specific terms for “sons-in-law,” “sons,” “daughters,” and “whoever else”—and urge him to bring them out. This sets up the coming destruction of Sodom and shows the angels’ concern for Lot’s whole household, not just Lot himself.
The Hebrew behind Genesis 19:12
- The word for “men” is אֲנָשִׁים (’anashim), which here refers to the angels in human form. This highlights that the warning comes with authority and urgency.
- The word for “city” is עִיר (’ir), emphasizing that the danger is not just to Lot’s house but to everyone within Sodom’s boundaries.
- The word for “out” is יָצָא (yatsa’), meaning to go out or bring out. The command is clear: physical removal from the place is necessary for safety.
- The word for “place” is מָקוֹם (maqom), which can mean a specific spot or area. Here, it underlines that the threat is tied to this particular location—Sodom.
Why Genesis 19:12 matters
- This verse clarifies that the angels’ warning is not just for Lot but extends to anyone connected to him, showing the scope of mercy offered before judgment.
- The specific mention of different family members and “whatsoever thou hast” highlights the seriousness and inclusiveness of the warning—no one should be left behind.
- Genesis 19:12 sets the stage for the urgency and gravity of the coming events, making it clear that action must be taken immediately to avoid disaster.