The Men of Sodom are primarily known from the biblical narrative found in the Book of Genesis, where they are depicted as inhabitants of the city of Sodom, one of the five cities of the plain, along with Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Zoar. The account of Sodom and its men is most notably detailed in Genesis 18 and 19, where their actions and the subsequent divine judgment upon the city are described.

Biblical Account

The city of Sodom is first mentioned in Genesis 13:10-13, where it is described as a fertile and prosperous area, "like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt" (Genesis 13:10). However, the men of Sodom are characterized as "wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD" (Genesis 13:13). This sets the stage for the later narrative involving Abraham and his nephew Lot.

In Genesis 18, the LORD reveals to Abraham His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah, stating, "The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Their sin is so grievous" (Genesis 18:20). Abraham intercedes for the city, and the LORD agrees to spare it if ten righteous people can be found there.

Genesis 19 provides a detailed account of the events leading to Sodom's destruction. Two angels, appearing as men, visit Sodom and are welcomed by Lot, who insists they stay at his house. The men of Sodom, described as "both young and old, from every part of the city," surround Lot's house and demand that he bring out the visitors so they can "know them" (Genesis 19:4-5). This demand is understood as an intention to commit acts of sexual immorality and violence.

Lot pleads with the men of Sodom not to act wickedly, even offering his daughters in an attempt to protect his guests. The men of Sodom reject Lot's plea and attempt to break down the door. The angels then intervene, striking the men with blindness and warning Lot to flee the city with his family, as the LORD has determined to destroy it.

Divine Judgment

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is a significant event in biblical history, serving as a demonstration of divine judgment against sin. Genesis 19:24-25 records, "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground" .

Theological Significance

The narrative of the Men of Sodom is often cited in discussions of sin, judgment, and the righteousness of God. The sins of Sodom are traditionally understood to include sexual immorality, pride, and a lack of hospitality, as referenced in other biblical passages such as Ezekiel 16:49-50 and Jude 1:7. The account serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and living in persistent sin.

New Testament References

The New Testament also references Sodom in the context of judgment and repentance. Jesus mentions Sodom in Matthew 10:15 and Luke 10:12, indicating that the judgment for those who reject the gospel will be more severe than that of Sodom. The apostle Peter and Jude both use Sodom as an example of divine retribution against ungodliness (2 Peter 2:6, Jude 1:7).

The Men of Sodom, therefore, stand as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the importance of righteousness and repentance in the life of believers.