Genesis 18:28
Peradventure there shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city for lack of five? And he said, If I find there forty and five, I will not destroy it.
Genesis 18:28 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Genesis, Abraham is pleading with God to spare the city of Sodom from destruction if there are righteous people living there. He starts by asking God if He would destroy the entire city if there were only 45 righteous individuals present. This conversation between Abraham and God shows us the compassion and mercy of God. It reveals that God is willing to spare a wicked city for the sake of a few righteous individuals who dwell there. It also exemplifies Abraham's concern for the inhabitants of Sodom, even though they were known for their wickedness. This verse teaches us about the importance of righteousness and how God values even a small number of righteous people. Ultimately, it illustrates the power of intercession and the impact that the prayers of a righteous person can have on a situation.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from Genesis 18:28 relates to the concept of justice and mercy in the character of God. In this passage, Abraham questions God's plan to destroy the city of Sodom if there are not enough righteous people within it. Abraham's pleading with God demonstrates his belief in a God who is just but also merciful. This dialogue between Abraham and God reveals the divine willingness to spare the city if even a small number of righteous individuals are found. It showcases God's consideration of human intercession and his desire to show mercy and compassion towards his creation. Additionally, the word study of 'peradventure' in this verse highlights Abraham's uncertainty and humility before God as he negotiates for the preservation of Sodom. The use of this term underscores the importance of faith and trust in God's grace and understanding of his divine will.
Genesis 18:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
peradventure there shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city for lack of five? And he said, I will not destroy it, if I find there forty and five.
World English Bible
What if there will lack five of the fifty righteous? Will you destroy all the city for lack of five?” He said, “I will not destroy it, if I find forty-five there.”
Douay-Rheims
What if there be five less than fifty just persons? wilt thou for five and forty destroy the whole city: And he said: I will not destroy it, if I find five and forty.
Geneva Bible (1599)
If there shall lacke fiue of fiftie righteous, wilt thou destroy all the citie for fiue? And he saide, If I finde there fiue and fourtie, I will not destroy it.