Old Testament
Genesis 19:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The older daughter said to the younger, "Our father is getting old, and there is not a man on earth to be with us in the usual way."
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And the firstborn said unto the younger, Our father is old, and there is not a man in the earth to come in unto us after the manner of all the earth:
What Genesis 19:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the older daughter expresses a deep concern about their future. She observes that their father is aging and feels a sense of urgency. The daughters are in a desperate situation, believing there are no men available to continue their family line. This reflects their fear of being left without support or legacy. Their thoughts lead them to consider drastic actions to ensure their survival and the continuation of their family. This scenario highlights the lengths people might go to when they feel isolated and hopeless. It also raises questions about morality and the choices we make in desperate times. The daughters' plan reveals their struggle with faith and trust in a higher power, as they take matters into their own hands. This moment serves as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the impact of fear on decision-making. It challenges us to think about how we respond to our own fears and uncertainties in life, and the choices we make as a result.
How to apply Genesis 19:31 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, it's easy to feel alone and make hasty decisions. Instead of acting out of fear, take a moment to reflect and seek guidance. Consider the long-term consequences of your choices. Trust that there are often better solutions than those that seem immediately necessary. Reach out for support when needed, rather than isolating yourself in tough times. “Trust in the process” can be a guiding principle.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Lot's story: In a Cave in the Mountains (Genesis 19:30–38)
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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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Keep studying Genesis 19:31
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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 19:31 mean?
Genesis 19:31 shows the older daughter expressing concern about their future due to their father's old age and the lack of men around them. This reflects their desperation and fear of being left without support or a family legacy.
What is the meaning of 'not a man on earth' in Genesis 19:31?
The phrase 'not a man on earth' indicates the daughters' belief that there are no available men to help them continue their family line. It highlights their isolation and the urgency they feel in their situation.
Why did the daughters feel desperate in Genesis 19:31?
The daughters felt desperate because they believed their father was too old to provide for them and that there were no men available to marry and continue their family line. This sense of isolation drove them to consider extreme actions.
What themes are present in Genesis 19:31?
Themes in Genesis 19:31 include desperation, family legacy, fear, morality, and isolation. These themes illustrate the lengths people may go to when faced with hopeless situations.
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