Old Testament

Genesis 19:35

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

So that night too they got their father to drink wine, and the younger daughter went and slept with him. Again, he was not aware when she lay down or when she got up.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And they made their father drink wine that night also: and the younger arose, and lay with him; and he perceived not when she lay down, nor when she arose.

What Genesis 19:35 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, we see a troubling situation unfold. The daughters of Lot, feeling desperate after the destruction of their city, decide to get their father drunk. They believe that this is the only way to continue their family line. The younger daughter goes to bed with him, and he is completely unaware of what is happening. This story highlights the lengths to which people might go when they feel hopeless. It also raises questions about consent and the impact of alcohol on decision-making. The actions of the daughters stem from fear and a lack of options, showing how desperation can lead to poor choices. This moment is a stark reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions, especially when driven by fear and isolation. It challenges us to think about how we respond in times of crisis and the importance of making wise decisions, even when faced with overwhelming circumstances. Understanding this story can help us reflect on our own choices and the values we hold dear.

How to apply Genesis 19:35 to your life

When faced with difficult situations, it's crucial to think carefully about our choices. This story reminds us that desperation can lead to actions we might regret. We should seek support and guidance rather than resorting to harmful decisions. Reflect on your values and the impact of your actions on others. Choose wisely, even in tough times. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “This chapter reveals a dark moment in Lot's family history. It shows how fear and desperation can lead

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.

A painting of Lot standing with his two daughters at the mouth of a cave in the mountains, high above the plain

Illustrated scene from Lot's story: In a Cave in the Mountains (Genesis 19:30–38)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Lot

Walls uncovered by archaeologists on the mound of Tell es-Sultan, with palm trees in the distance.

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. 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.

Jericho

The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Genesis 19:35

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 19:35

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 19:35 mean?

Genesis 19:35 describes a troubling event where Lot's daughters, feeling desperate after their city's destruction, get their father drunk to continue their family line. The younger daughter sleeps with him while he is unaware, highlighting the impact of fear and isolation on decision-making.

What is the meaning of consent in Genesis 19:35?

In Genesis 19:35, the concept of consent is complicated as Lot is intoxicated and unaware of his actions. This raises important questions about the nature of consent, especially in situations involving alcohol and manipulation.

How does Genesis 19:35 relate to poor choices?

Genesis 19:35 serves as a cautionary tale about how desperation can drive individuals to make harmful decisions. The actions of Lot's daughters reflect the consequences of acting without careful consideration in times of crisis.

What themes are present in Genesis 19:35?

Key themes in Genesis 19:35 include desperation, family dynamics, the effects of alcohol, and the consequences of poor choices. These themes highlight the complexities of human behavior in extreme situations.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.