Topical Encyclopedia Gomorrah is one of the ancient cities mentioned in the Bible, most notably in the Book of Genesis, as part of the infamous "Cities of the Plain." Alongside Sodom, Admah, Zeboiim, and Zoar (also known as Bela), Gomorrah is depicted as a city characterized by great wickedness and sinfulness, ultimately leading to its divine judgment and destruction.Biblical Account The primary biblical narrative concerning Gomorrah is found in Genesis 18-19. The city, along with Sodom, is described as exceedingly sinful, prompting God to reveal to Abraham His intention to investigate and potentially destroy the cities due to their grave iniquity. Abraham intercedes on behalf of the cities, particularly concerned for his nephew Lot, who resides in Sodom. Despite Abraham's pleas, the lack of righteous individuals in the cities leads to their ultimate destruction. Genesis 19 details the arrival of two angels in Sodom, where Lot extends hospitality to them. The men of Sodom, however, surround Lot's house, demanding to engage in immoral acts with the visitors. This event underscores the depravity of the city. The angels warn Lot to flee with his family, as the Lord is about to destroy the city. Lot and his family escape to Zoar, and God rains down sulfur and fire from heaven, obliterating Sodom and Gomorrah. Genesis 19:24-25 states, "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He destroyed these cities and the entire plain, including all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground." Theological Significance Gomorrah, along with Sodom, serves as a powerful symbol of divine judgment against sin and moral corruption. The narrative emphasizes the seriousness with which God views sin and the consequences of persistent unrighteousness. The destruction of Gomorrah is often cited in biblical literature as a warning to other nations and individuals about the perils of turning away from God's commandments. In the New Testament, Gomorrah is referenced as an example of God's judgment. In 2 Peter 2:6 , it is written, "if He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction, reducing them to ashes as an example of what is coming on the ungodly." Similarly, Jude 1:7 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 sustain the punishment of eternal fire." Archaeological and Historical Context The exact location of Gomorrah remains a subject of debate among scholars and archaeologists. Some propose that the ruins of the city lie beneath the waters of the southern Dead Sea, while others suggest sites such as Bab edh-Dhra and Numeira as potential locations. Despite the uncertainty, the story of Gomorrah has left a lasting impact on religious thought and cultural references throughout history. Conclusion Gomorrah stands as a testament to the biblical themes of sin, judgment, and the mercy of God in providing opportunities for repentance. The narrative serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of moral decay and the importance of living in accordance with divine principles. Through the story of Gomorrah, believers are called to reflect on their own lives and the need for righteousness in the sight of God. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:19And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as you come to Gerar, to Gaza; as you go, to Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even to Lasha. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 13:10 Library Abraham --The Father of the Faithful. The Importance of a Choice A Plain Description of the Essence and Attributes of God, Out of ... "Nothing is Impossible to Industry, "Said one of the Seven Sages ... God who Appeared to Moses is Distinguished from God the Father. The History after the Flood. The Prophecy of the Perilous Times. Seventh Commandment The Godhood of God Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin Resources What was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Abraham bargain with God in regard to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18)? | GotQuestions.org What were Admah and Zeboiim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Gomorrah: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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