Old Testament
Genesis 19:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When he hesitated, the men grabbed his hand, his wife's hand, and the hands of his two daughters — because the LORD was merciful to him — and they led them safely outside the city.
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And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.
What Genesis 19:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Lot is hesitating to leave the city that is about to be destroyed. The angels, sent by God, recognize his struggle and take action. They grab Lot and his family, showing them mercy and urgency. This act of kindness is a reminder that even in our moments of doubt, help can come from unexpected places. The angels lead them safely out of danger, emphasizing the importance of listening to guidance when faced with tough decisions. It illustrates how sometimes we need a push to move away from harmful situations. The mercy shown here is a powerful reminder that we are not alone, even when we feel stuck. It encourages us to trust in the support we receive and to take steps toward safety and a better future. Lot's story teaches us about the importance of recognizing when to let go and move forward, even when it feels difficult. God’s mercy can lead us to safety, even when we hesitate to take the first step ourselves. This moment is a testament to divine compassion.
How to apply Genesis 19:16 to your life
When you find yourself hesitating in difficult situations, remember that help can come in unexpected ways. Be open to guidance and support from others. Trust that moving forward, even when it feels hard, can lead to safety and a brighter future. Embrace the mercy that surrounds you and take action toward positive change. You are not alone in your struggles, and support is available if you seek it out. “Trust in the process and take
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Lot's story: Brought Out of Sodom (Genesis 19:12–22)
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Lot
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 19:16 mean?
Genesis 19:16 describes how Lot hesitated to leave the city before its destruction. The angels, sent by God, physically took Lot and his family by the hand to lead them to safety, demonstrating God's mercy and the urgency of escaping danger.
What is the meaning of mercy in Genesis 19:16?
In Genesis 19:16, mercy refers to God's compassion towards Lot and his family, allowing them to escape the impending destruction of the city. This act of mercy highlights the importance of divine intervention in moments of hesitation and danger.
Why did the angels grab Lot and his family in Genesis 19:16?
The angels grabbed Lot and his family because he was hesitating to leave the city that was about to be destroyed. Their action was a demonstration of God's mercy and a prompt to ensure their safety.
What lesson can we learn from Genesis 19:16?
Genesis 19:16 teaches us that even in moments of doubt and hesitation, help can come unexpectedly. It encourages us to trust in guidance and take action towards safety, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.
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