Old Testament
Genesis 18:24
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Abraham is speaking to God about the fate of a city that is known for its wickedness.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"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?"
Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
Unlock the full Genesis summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Genesis — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 50 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Genesis summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.