Genesis 19:17
And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.
Genesis 19:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the story of Lot and his family in the book of Genesis. In this particular verse, God instructs Lot and his family to escape from the city of Sodom before it is destroyed. The verse emphasizes the urgency and importance of leaving quickly without looking back or stopping. The instruction to not look back symbolizes the detachment from the sinful ways of the city and the need to fully commit to following God's command. The choice to escape to the mountain represents seeking refuge in a higher place, both physically and spiritually. By following these instructions, Lot and his family were able to save themselves from the impending destruction. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of wholeheartedly following God's guidance.
Theological Overview
This verse, from Genesis 19:17, showcases an important theological interpretation regarding the consequences of disobedience and the call to escape from sin. In this context, the word "escape" carries a sense of urgency and importance, highlighting the need to swiftly leave behind sinful influences in order to avoid destruction. The instruction to not look back signifies the danger of being distracted or longing for a past life of sin, emphasizing the importance of focusing on moving forward in faith. Additionally, the directive to escape to the mountain serves as a metaphor for seeking refuge in God, as mountains are often symbolic of strength and protection in biblical literature. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the need to heed God's warnings and flee from temptation in order to find ultimate safety and salvation.
Genesis 19:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the Plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.
World English Bible
It came to pass, when they had taken them out, that he said, “Escape for your life! Don’t look behind you, and don’t stay anywhere in the plain. Escape to the mountains, lest you be consumed!”
Douay-Rheims
And they brought him forth, and set him without the city: and there they spoke to him, saying: Save thy life: look not back, neither stay thou in all the country about: but save thy self in the mountain, lest thou be also consumed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when they had brought them out, the Angel said, Escape for thy life: looke not behinde thee, neither tarie thou in all the plaine: escape into ye mountaine, least thou be destroyed.