Old Testament
Genesis 18:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you still destroy it rather than spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are there?"
Compare translations
Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?
What Genesis 18:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Abraham is speaking to God about the fate of a city that is known for its wickedness. He questions whether God would destroy the city if there are fifty good people living there. Abraham's concern highlights the value of righteousness and how it can impact the fate of many. He is advocating for mercy, showing that even a small number of good individuals can make a difference. This conversation reveals a deep relationship between Abraham and God, where Abraham feels comfortable negotiating for the lives of others. It emphasizes the importance of community and the idea that the presence of good people can influence the outcome for everyone. Abraham's plea is a reminder that we should care for those around us and strive to be a positive influence in our communities. It also reflects God's willingness to listen and consider the pleas of His people, showcasing His mercy and justice. This moment is significant as it sets the stage for understanding God's character and His approach to judgment.
How to apply Genesis 18:24 to your life
This passage encourages us to think about our own communities and the impact of our actions. It reminds us that even a few good individuals can influence the greater good. We should strive to be those positive influences and advocate for mercy and justice in our surroundings. Our voices matter, and we can make a difference together. We should also remember to pray for others and seek their well-being, just as Abraham did for the
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Abraham Pleads for Sodom (Genesis 18:16–33)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 18:24
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 18:24
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 18:24 mean?
Genesis 18:24 captures Abraham's plea to God, questioning whether He would destroy a city if there were fifty righteous people living there. This highlights the importance of righteousness and suggests that the presence of good individuals can influence God's judgment.
What is the significance of the number fifty in Genesis 18:24?
The number fifty in Genesis 18:24 represents a specific threshold of righteousness that Abraham believes could save the city from destruction. It emphasizes the idea that even a small group of good people can have a significant impact on the fate of many.
How does Genesis 18:24 relate to the themes of mercy and justice?
Genesis 18:24 showcases the themes of mercy and justice by demonstrating Abraham's intercession for the righteous. It reveals God's willingness to consider the pleas of His people and highlights the balance between justice for the wicked and mercy for the righteous.
What can we learn from Abraham's conversation with God in Genesis 18:24?
Abraham's conversation with God teaches us the importance of advocating for others and the impact of community. It encourages us to be positive influences and to seek mercy and justice in our own lives and communities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.