The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is a significant event recorded in the Book of Genesis, chapters 18 and 19, illustrating God's judgment upon sin and His mercy towards the righteous. These cities, along with Admah, Zeboiim, and Zoar, were located in the plain of the Jordan River, an area described as well-watered and fertile, akin to the garden of the LORD (Genesis 13:10).

Background and Context

The narrative begins with the LORD appearing to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre. During this encounter, the LORD reveals His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah, as their sin is described as "very grievous" (Genesis 18:20). Abraham intercedes for the cities, negotiating with God to spare them if righteous individuals can be found. The LORD agrees not to destroy the cities if ten righteous people are present (Genesis 18:32).

The Sin of Sodom and Gomorrah

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah are often associated with grave sinfulness, particularly sexual immorality and pride. Ezekiel 16:49-50 highlights their arrogance, gluttony, and neglect of the poor and needy. Jude 1:7 further emphasizes their indulgence in sexual immorality and perversion, serving as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.

The Angels' Visit and Lot's Deliverance

Two angels arrive in Sodom in the evening and are met by Lot, Abraham's nephew, who insists they stay at his house. The men of Sodom, both young and old, surround Lot's house, demanding to have relations with the visitors. Lot offers his daughters instead, but the men refuse, seeking to harm the angels (Genesis 19:4-9). The angels strike the men with blindness and warn Lot to gather his family and flee the city, as its destruction is imminent (Genesis 19:11-13).

Lot hesitates, but the angels seize him, his wife, and his daughters, leading them out of the city. They instruct them not to look back or stop in the plain but to flee to the mountains. Lot pleads to escape to the small city of Zoar, and his request is granted (Genesis 19:15-22).

The Destruction

As Lot reaches Zoar, the LORD rains down sulfur and fire from heaven upon Sodom and Gomorrah, overthrowing the cities, the entire plain, and all the inhabitants (Genesis 19:24-25). Lot's wife, disobeying the angels' command, looks back and becomes a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26).

Aftermath and Significance

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a powerful testament to God's judgment against sin and His deliverance of the righteous. The event is frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a warning and a symbol of divine retribution (Deuteronomy 29:23, Isaiah 13:19, Jeremiah 49:18, Luke 17:28-30).

The Apostle Peter uses the destruction as an example of God's ability to rescue the godly from trials while keeping the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment (2 Peter 2:6-9). The event underscores the themes of justice, mercy, and the importance of righteousness in the biblical narrative.