Old Testament
Genesis 19:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The younger daughter also gave birth to a son and named him Benammi. He is the ancestor of the children of Ammon to this day.
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And the younger, she also bare a son, and called his name Benammi: the same is the father of the children of Ammon unto this day.
What Genesis 19:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the younger daughter of Lot, who gave birth to a son named Benammi. This event is significant because it marks the beginning of the Ammonite people, who are descendants of Benammi. The name Benammi means 'son of my people,' reflecting a deep connection to family and heritage. This story highlights the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of choices made in difficult circumstances. Lot and his daughters faced a challenging situation after fleeing from Sodom, and their actions led to the establishment of new nations. The Ammonites would later play a role in the history of Israel, showing how our actions can have lasting impacts. This narrative invites us to consider how our own decisions shape our legacy and the lives of those who come after us. It reminds us that even in challenging times, new beginnings can emerge, and our family ties can influence future generations. Understanding this helps us appreciate the importance of our choices and their ripple effects in the world.
How to apply Genesis 19:38 to your life
Reflect on your own family history and the choices that have shaped it. Consider how your actions today might influence future generations. Strive to make decisions that foster positive relationships and create a legacy of love and support for those who come after you. Every choice counts in building your family's story and future. Embrace the power of your influence in the lives of others around you.
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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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 19:38 mean?
Genesis 19:38 describes the birth of Benammi, the son of Lot's younger daughter. This event signifies the founding of the Ammonite people, highlighting the impact of Lot's family's choices after fleeing Sodom.
What is the significance of the name Benammi in Genesis 19:38?
The name Benammi means 'son of my people,' which emphasizes the importance of family and heritage in this narrative. It reflects the deep connection the younger daughter felt towards her family despite their difficult circumstances.
How does Genesis 19:38 relate to family legacy?
Genesis 19:38 shows how the actions of Lot and his daughters led to the establishment of new nations, like the Ammonites. This highlights how our decisions can shape our family's legacy and influence future generations.
What lessons can we learn from Genesis 19:38?
From Genesis 19:38, we learn about the importance of our choices and their long-term effects on our families. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and strive to create a positive legacy for those who come after us.
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