GENESIS—NOTE ON Genesis 19:5 that we may know them. In Hebrew the verb “to know” sometimes implies sexual intercourse (e.g., Genesis 4:1, Genesis 4:17, Genesis 4:25; Genesis 19:8; compare Judges 19:22). The context suggests that the men of Sodom intend to have homosexual relations with the two visitors, hence the origin of the term “sodomy.” By acting so wickedly against defenseless strangers, the entire community invites divine punishment.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising