The account of the wickedness of Sodom's men is primarily found in the book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 18 and 19. Sodom, along with Gomorrah, is depicted as a city steeped in sin and moral depravity, ultimately leading to its divine judgment and destruction.

Biblical Account

The narrative begins in Genesis 18, where the LORD appears to Abraham and reveals His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah. The LORD says, "The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Their sin is so grievous" (Genesis 18:20). Abraham intercedes for the cities, and the LORD agrees to spare them if ten righteous people can be found.

In Genesis 19, two angels arrive in Sodom and are met by Lot, Abraham's nephew, 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 a desire for sexual relations, highlighting the city's moral corruption.

Lot pleads with the men, offering his daughters instead, but the crowd persists. The angels intervene, striking the men with blindness and warning Lot to flee the city with his family. The LORD then rains down sulfur and fire, destroying Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24-25).

Theological Implications

The wickedness of Sodom's men is often cited as an example of extreme moral decay and is frequently associated with sexual immorality, particularly homosexual acts, as indicated by the men's demand to "know" the visitors. This interpretation is supported by later biblical references, such as Jude 1:7, which states, "In like manner, Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them, who indulged in sexual immorality and pursued strange flesh, are on display as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire" .

The account of Sodom serves as a warning against the consequences of unchecked sin and the importance of righteousness. The city's destruction is a testament to God's judgment against pervasive wickedness and His willingness to act against those who reject His moral order.

Cultural and Historical Context

Sodom's reputation for wickedness was well-known in the ancient Near East, and its destruction became a symbol of divine retribution. The city's sins were not limited to sexual immorality; Ezekiel 16:49-50 highlights other transgressions, such as pride, gluttony, and neglect of the poor: "Now this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters had arrogance, abundant food, and careless ease, but she did not help the poor and needy. Thus they were haughty and committed abominations before Me" .

Legacy and Interpretation

The term "sodomy" has historically been derived from this account, often used to describe certain sexual acts considered sinful. The account of Sodom and Gomorrah has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, but it consistently serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the importance of living a life of righteousness and compassion.