Genesis 18:16

KJV

¶ And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the men {H582} rose up {H6965} from thence, and looked {H8259} toward {H6440} Sodom {H5467}: and Abraham {H85} went {H1980} with them to bring them on the way {H7971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The men set out from there and looked over toward S'dom, and Avraham went with them to see them on their way.

Berean Standard Bible

When the men got up to leave, they looked out over Sodom, and Abraham walked along with them to see them off.

American Standard Version

And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 18:16 serves as a pivotal transition, marking the departure of the divine visitors from Abraham’s encampment at Mamre. Their ominous gaze towards Sodom signals an imminent shift from the joyful promise of Isaac’s birth to the solemn purpose of divine judgment. Abraham, demonstrating profound hospitality and his unique relationship with God, accompanies them on their way, setting the immediate stage for his remarkable intercession on behalf of the cities of the plain.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a profound and intimate encounter between Abraham, Sarah, and the Lord, accompanied by two angels. The preceding verses detail the miraculous reaffirmation of the promise of a son, Isaac, to Abraham and Sarah, despite their advanced age and Sarah's initial disbelief. Abraham’s exceptional hospitality, where he eagerly served and ministered to these mysterious strangers, unknowingly hosting divine beings, forms the backdrop. As the visitors conclude their meal and conversation, Genesis 18:16 marks their physical departure and a dramatic narrative pivot. The focus shifts from the covenant promise to Abraham's lineage to the impending judgment upon the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, leading directly into the Lord’s revelation of His intentions to Abraham in [Genesis 18:17-33](/genesis/18-17-33 "God's Revelation and Abraham's Intercession").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The act of "bringing them on the way" reflects a deeply ingrained cultural practice of hospitality in the ancient Near East. A host would typically accompany departing guests for a distance, a gesture signifying respect, goodwill, protection, and a complete fulfillment of host duties. This was not merely a polite custom but a significant social obligation, ensuring the guests' safe passage and honoring their presence. The setting is the region of Mamre, near Hebron, a significant location for Abraham, and the destination is Sodom, located in the Jordan Valley, renowned for its prosperity but also its extreme moral depravity, as depicted in [Genesis 13:13](/genesis/13-13 "Wickedness of Sodom"). The narrative thus operates within a cultural framework where hospitality was paramount and divine judgment for egregious sin was understood as a righteous act.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 18:16 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights **divine sovereignty and justice**, as God’s gaze turns towards a city ripe for judgment, demonstrating His active involvement in human affairs and His righteous indignation against sin. It underscores **God's intimate relationship with His chosen servants**, particularly Abraham, who is treated not merely as a recipient of blessings but as a confidant, invited into the divine counsel. Abraham's act of escorting the visitors emphasizes the theme of **hospitality** as a virtue that can lead to unexpected divine encounters, echoing the later instruction to "entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" found in [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Exhortation to Hospitality"). Most significantly, this verse sets the stage for the theme of **intercession**, as Abraham's proximity to the divine visitors and his unique relationship with God prepare him to plead on behalf of the wicked city, foreshadowing the role of the righteous in mediating for the unrighteous, a theme that culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **rose up (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** This primitive root signifies not merely a physical act of standing but also a change of state, an active decision to move or initiate a new phase. In this context, it marks the conclusion of the intimate fellowship at Abraham's tent and the deliberate commencement of the divine mission. It implies a purposeful and decisive shift from rest to action, from personal interaction to a specific divine assignment.
* **looked (Hebrew, _shâqaph'_):** This word implies a deliberate, focused, and often intense gaze, frequently used in contexts where one looks down from a height or looks out with a specific intent. Here, the divine gaze "toward Sodom" is not casual observation but an ominous, purposeful act, signifying divine attention, scrutiny, and the imminent execution of judgment upon the city. It carries a sense of foreboding and a clear indication of the object of their divine mission.
* **bring them on the way (Hebrew, _shâlach'_):** The root of this phrase means "to send away, for, or out." In this specific construction, it refers to the act of escorting or accompanying someone who is departing. It encapsulates the ancient Near Eastern custom of hospitality where a host would walk with guests for a distance. For Abraham, it underscores his profound respect and commitment to his guests, but more importantly, it highlights his unique and intimate relationship with the divine visitors, setting the stage for the subsequent revelation and intercession.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the men rose up from thence":** This clause signifies the conclusion of the divine visitors' sojourn at Abraham's tent. The act of "rising up" indicates a decisive shift from the preceding intimate fellowship and meal to the next phase of their divine mission. It marks the end of their personal interaction with Abraham and Sarah and the beginning of their movement towards the purpose for which they had truly come.
* **"and looked toward Sodom":** This is a highly significant and ominous action. Sodom, already established as a city of profound wickedness, becomes the immediate and deliberate focus of the divine gaze. This "looking" is not a casual glance but a purposeful, scrutinizing observation that foreshadows the imminent divine judgment and destruction detailed in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"). It visually communicates the Lord's direct attention to the pervasive sin of the city and His righteous indignation.
* **"and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way":** This phrase describes Abraham's adherence to the ancient Near Eastern custom of hospitality, where a host would accompany departing guests for a distance. This act was a profound gesture of respect, goodwill, and protection, signifying the complete and honorable discharge of his duties as a host. Crucially, for Abraham, it also underscores his unique and intimate relationship with the divine visitors. His close companionship sets the stage for the remarkable dialogue that immediately follows in [Genesis 18:17-33](/genesis/18-17-33 "God's Revelation and Abraham's Intercession"), where God explicitly states, "Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?"

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 18:16 employs several significant literary devices. The verse functions as a crucial **Transition**, marking a dramatic shift in the narrative's focus from the joyous promise of Isaac's birth to the solemn, impending judgment of Sodom. This shift is powerfully conveyed through **Foreshadowing** and **Prolepsis**, particularly in the phrase "looked toward Sodom," which immediately hints at the future destruction of the city without explicitly stating it, building suspense and anticipation. The city of Sodom itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing extreme human depravity and the inevitable consequence of unrepentant sin. Abraham's act of "bringing them on the way" also carries **Symbolic** weight, representing not just cultural hospitality but the intimate, trusting relationship he shares with God, setting him apart as a confidant. While not overt, there's a subtle use of **Anthropomorphism** in the description of the divine "men" rising and looking, attributing human actions to divine beings to make their presence and purpose relatable to the human narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 18:16 is rich with theological and thematic implications. It powerfully illustrates God's active involvement in human history, His unwavering commitment to justice, and His righteous response to sin. The divine gaze towards Sodom underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations and His steadfast determination to execute judgment where wickedness is pervasive and unrepentant. Yet, amidst this impending judgment, the passage simultaneously highlights God's profound desire for intimacy and transparency with those who walk closely with Him. His willingness to reveal His plans to Abraham, a trusted friend, exemplifies His covenant faithfulness and desire to share His heart with His chosen. Abraham's act of hospitality and his accompanying the divine visitors also sets the stage for his remarkable intercession, emphasizing the crucial role of the righteous in pleading for the unrighteous and demonstrating the power of prayer motivated by compassion and a deep understanding of God's character.

* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "God Reveals Secrets to His Servants"): "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."
* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hospitality to Strangers"): "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
* [James 2:23](/james/2-23 "Abraham, Friend of God"): "And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 18:16 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, inviting us to reflect on the nature of our walk with God and our role in His divine purposes. Firstly, it reiterates the enduring importance of genuine hospitality, reminding us that acts of kindness and openness to strangers can, at times, be encounters with the divine. This calls us to cultivate a spirit of generosity and welcome, recognizing that Christ Himself identifies with those we serve. Secondly, the passage powerfully illustrates God's desire for a deep, intimate relationship with His people. Just as He revealed His heart and plans to Abraham, He longs to share His will with those who walk closely with Him in faith and obedience. This encourages us to pursue a vibrant, prayerful relationship with God, seeking His counsel and allowing Him to share His burdens and purposes with us. Finally, this verse serves as a solemn reminder of God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all human affairs. Even as He extends grace and opportunity for intercession through His faithful servants, He will ultimately bring righteous judgment upon sin. Our walk with God should therefore be one of close companionship, enabling us to discern His will and participate in His divine purposes, whether in blessing or in the face of impending judgment, always striving to be His faithful representatives in a world desperately in need of His truth and grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Abraham's act of hospitality challenge my own willingness to serve others, especially strangers?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, allowing Him to reveal His purposes to me as He did to Abraham?**
* **How does the impending judgment on Sodom, foreshadowed in this verse, inform my understanding of God's justice and my call to intercede for the world around me?**

### FAQ
**Why did Abraham accompany the men on their way?**

Answer: Abraham accompanied the men as a traditional and deeply significant act of hospitality in the ancient Near East. It was a common courtesy for a host to walk with departing guests for a distance, signifying respect, goodwill, and a complete fulfillment of host duties, ensuring their safe departure. Beyond cultural custom, this act also profoundly highlights Abraham's deep personal relationship and intimacy with the Lord, setting the stage for the remarkable and revealing conversation about Sodom that immediately follows in [Genesis 18:17-33](/genesis/18-17-33 "God's Revelation and Abraham's Intercession").

**What is the significance of the men "looking toward Sodom"?**

Answer: The act of the men "looking toward Sodom" is highly significant and ominous. It marks a dramatic and immediate shift in the narrative's focus from the promise of a son to the impending divine judgment. This deliberate gaze visually foreshadows the divine wrath about to be unleashed upon Sodom and Gomorrah due to their pervasive and unrepentant wickedness, as detailed in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"). It emphasizes God's direct attention to human sin and His readiness to execute righteous judgment, underscoring His sovereignty and justice.

**Who exactly were "the men" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: Based on the preceding narrative in [Genesis 18:1-2](/genesis/18-1-2 "The Lord Appears to Abraham"), "the men" refer to the Lord Himself, who appeared to Abraham, accompanied by two angels. While the text often refers to them collectively as "men," the divine identity of at least one of them (the Lord) is made explicitly clear through the dialogue and actions described throughout the chapter, particularly the Lord's direct pronouncements (e.g., [Genesis 18:10](/genesis/18-10 "Promise of a Son")) and His omniscient knowledge of Sarah's thoughts (e.g., [Genesis 18:13](/genesis/18-13 "The Lord Questions Sarah's Laughter")). The other two "men" are identified as angels in [Genesis 19:1](/genesis/19-1 "Two Angels Arrive in Sodom").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 18:16, though rooted in the Old Testament narrative, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Abraham's extraordinary hospitality towards the divine visitors, one of whom is the pre-incarnate Lord, beautifully prefigures Christ's own incarnation, where God Himself "tabernacled among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")), making Himself accessible and dwelling with humanity. The Lord's revelation of His plans to Abraham, a trusted friend and covenant partner, points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate revelation of God's will and purpose for humanity, through whom all divine mysteries are made known and in whom "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")). Furthermore, the ominous gaze towards Sodom, signifying impending judgment, powerfully foreshadows Christ's ultimate role as the righteous Judge of all the earth, to whom "all judgment" has been committed by the Father ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "The Son as Judge")). Yet, Abraham's act of accompanying the divine visitors and his subsequent intercession for Sodom also profoundly prefigure Christ's ultimate role as the Great Intercessor, who "ever liveth to make intercession" for His people before the Father ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Christ's Intercession")), and whose perfect sacrifice as the "Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")) is the perfect propitiation that averts divine wrath for all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 21:5

And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

Acts 15:3

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

Acts 20:38

Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

3 John 1:6

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well:

Romans 15:24

Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your [company].