Old Testament
Genesis 19:34
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The next day the older daughter said to the younger, "Last night I slept with our father. Let us get him to drink wine again tonight, and you go in and sleep with him so we can preserve our father's family line."
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And it came to pass on the morrow, that the firstborn said unto the younger, Behold, I lay yesternight with my father: let us make him drink wine this night also; and go thou in, and lie with him, that we may preserve seed of our father.
What Genesis 19:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the older daughter reveals to her younger sister that she had a sexual encounter with their father the previous night. She proposes that they repeat this act to ensure their family line continues, suggesting that they get their father drunk again. This situation highlights the desperation and moral confusion the daughters face after the destruction of their home in Sodom. They believe that preserving their family lineage is of utmost importance, even if it means resorting to such extreme measures. Their actions reflect a lack of faith in a future beyond their immediate circumstances. This story serves as a stark reminder of how fear and isolation can lead to troubling decisions. It challenges us to consider the lengths we might go to in order to secure our future, even when those choices are deeply flawed. Ultimately, it raises questions about morality, family loyalty, and the consequences of our actions in desperate times. The daughters' plan reveals a complex mix of survival instinct and misguided thinking.
How to apply Genesis 19:34 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, we may be tempted to make choices that compromise our values. It's important to pause and reflect on the long-term consequences of our actions. Seeking guidance from trusted sources can help us navigate tough decisions with integrity and wisdom. Remember, there are always better options than resorting to desperation. Trust in a brighter future can lead to healthier choices and outcomes. .
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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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 19:34 mean?
Genesis 19:34 describes a troubling situation where the older daughter tells her sister about a sexual encounter with their father, suggesting they repeat the act to ensure their family line continues. This reflects the desperation and moral confusion they face after the destruction of Sodom.
What is the significance of the daughters' actions in Genesis 19:34?
The daughters' actions in Genesis 19:34 signify a deep moral confusion and a survival instinct driven by fear and isolation. Their plan to get their father drunk and sleep with him reveals their misguided thinking in a desperate situation.
Why did the daughters want to sleep with their father in Genesis 19:34?
The daughters wanted to sleep with their father to preserve their family line, believing it was necessary after the destruction of Sodom. Their actions reflect a lack of faith in a future beyond their immediate circumstances.
What themes are present in Genesis 19:34?
Genesis 19:34 presents themes of desperation, family loyalty, moral confusion, and survival instinct. These themes highlight the complex decisions people make when faced with extreme challenges.
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