The arrival of the angels in Sodom is a significant event recorded in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 19:1-29. This narrative is pivotal in understanding the themes of divine judgment, hospitality, and the moral state of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Context and Background

The account unfolds after Abraham's intercession for Sodom in Genesis 18, where he pleads with God to spare the city if righteous individuals can be found within it. The angels' visit to Sodom serves as a direct response to this intercession and as a means to assess the city's wickedness firsthand.

The Arrival

Genesis 19:1 states, "Now the two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When Lot saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed with his face to the ground." The angels, appearing as men, are met by Lot, Abraham's nephew, who is residing in Sodom. Lot's position at the city gate suggests a role of some prominence or responsibility within the community.

Hospitality and Protection

Lot's immediate response is one of hospitality, a critical cultural value in the ancient Near East. He insists that the angels stay at his house, offering them shelter and a meal. Genesis 19:3 notes, "But Lot insisted so strongly that they followed him into his house. He prepared a feast for them and baked unleavened bread, and they ate." This act of hospitality contrasts sharply with the behavior of the city's inhabitants.

The Wickedness of Sodom

The narrative quickly shifts to highlight the depravity of Sodom's citizens. Genesis 19:4-5 describes how the men of Sodom, both young and old, surround Lot's house and demand that he bring out his guests so they can "know them." This euphemism for sexual violence underscores the city's moral corruption and the extent of its wickedness.

Lot's Plea and the Angels' Intervention

In a desperate attempt to protect his guests, Lot offers his daughters to the mob, a decision reflecting the complex and often troubling social norms of the time. However, the angels intervene, striking the men with blindness and ensuring Lot's safety. Genesis 19:11 states, "And they struck with blindness the men at the entrance, both young and old, so that they wearied themselves trying to find the door."

Divine Judgment Announced

The angels reveal their purpose: to destroy Sodom due to its grievous sins. They instruct Lot to gather his family and flee the city to avoid the impending judgment. Genesis 19:13 declares, "For we are about to destroy this place, because the outcry against its people has grown loud before the LORD, and the LORD has sent us to destroy it."

Escape and Destruction

Lot's sons-in-law dismiss the warning as a jest, but Lot, his wife, and his two daughters heed the angels' command. As they flee, the angels urge them not to look back. Tragically, Lot's wife disobeys and is turned into a pillar of salt. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah follows, with fire and brimstone raining down from heaven, as described in Genesis 19:24-25 .

Significance

The arrival of the angels in Sodom serves as a powerful narrative illustrating the themes of divine justice and mercy. It highlights the stark contrast between the righteousness of Lot, albeit flawed, and the pervasive wickedness of Sodom. This event is often referenced in biblical discussions on judgment, hospitality, and the consequences of sin.