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Book of Genesis - Chapter 19 - Verse 17

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.

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.

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.
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