Old Testament
Genesis 18:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then the LORD said, "The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is enormous, and their sin is extremely severe."
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And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;
What Genesis 18:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is expressing His awareness of the deep wrongdoing happening in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. The 'outcry' refers to the cries of those suffering from injustice and sin. God acknowledges that the level of sin in these cities is not just significant; it is extreme. This indicates that the moral decay has reached a point where it can no longer be ignored. God is not indifferent to the pain and suffering caused by the actions of the people. Instead, He is preparing to take action in response to the overwhelming evidence of their wrongdoing. This moment highlights God's justice and His commitment to addressing evil. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and that God sees and hears the cries of those who are wronged. The severity of the situation in Sodom and Gomorrah illustrates the importance of living righteously and treating others with respect and kindness, as God is aware of all that happens in our lives and communities. His justice is both a warning and a call to accountability.
How to apply Genesis 18:20 to your life
This passage encourages us to reflect on our own actions and their impact on others. It reminds us that our choices matter and that we should strive to live justly and compassionately. By being aware of the needs around us, we can contribute to a more just and caring community. Let’s be proactive in addressing wrongs we see in our world today. Our voices can make a difference against injustice and suffering, just as God
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Abraham Pleads for Sodom (Genesis 18:16–33)
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Abraham
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 18:20 mean?
Genesis 18:20 reveals God's awareness of the severe sin and injustice in Sodom and Gomorrah. It highlights that the outcry from those suffering due to this wrongdoing has reached God, prompting Him to take action.
What is the significance of the outcry in Genesis 18:20?
The outcry in Genesis 18:20 represents the cries of those who are suffering from the injustices and sins committed in Sodom and Gomorrah. It signifies that God hears the pain of the oppressed and is concerned about moral decay.
What does the term 'grievous' mean in Genesis 18:20?
In Genesis 18:20, 'grievous' refers to the extreme severity and seriousness of the sins committed in Sodom and Gomorrah. It indicates that the level of wrongdoing is so high that it cannot be overlooked.
How does Genesis 18:20 relate to accountability?
Genesis 18:20 emphasizes accountability by showing that God is aware of human actions and their impact on others. It serves as a reminder that individuals and communities are responsible for their choices and the treatment of others.
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