Genesis 19:35: “So they got their father to drink wine that night also, and the younger daughter went in and slept with him. Again he was not aware of it when she lay down or when she got up.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Genesis 19:35 describes the second instance in which Lot’s daughters carry out their plan to ensure the continuation of their family line. After the older daughter’s actions the previous night, the younger daughter follows suit. Just as before, they get their father, Lot, drunk, and while he is unaware of what is happening, the younger daughter sleeps with him. This verse continues the narrative of the morally troubling actions taken by Lot’s daughters, driven by their desperation and fear of being left without descendants.
This verse highlights the extent to which Lot’s daughters are willing to go in order to achieve their goal. It also underscores the complete loss of awareness and control that Lot experiences due to his intoxication, making him complicit in actions he would not have consented to if he were sober.
Historical Context
The historical context of Genesis 19:35 is set in the aftermath of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, where Lot and his daughters have fled to a cave in the mountains. In the ancient Near Eastern world, the survival of a family’s lineage was of paramount importance, and bearing children was considered a crucial duty. However, the actions taken by Lot’s daughters, though understandable from a human perspective given their isolation, are clearly outside the bounds of God’s moral law.
Incest, as depicted here, was condemned in the broader moral and cultural context of the Bible, and it would later be explicitly prohibited in the Law of Moses. This account also serves as the origin story for the Moabites and Ammonites, two nations that would become adversaries of Israel, showing how these actions had long-term consequences.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Genesis 19:35 emphasizes the dangers of human reasoning when it is disconnected from faith in God. Lot’s daughters acted out of fear and desperation rather than trusting that God could provide a solution that did not involve sin. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that even when we face difficult or desperate circumstances, turning to sinful actions can lead to further complications and lasting negative effects.
Additionally, this verse speaks to the importance of maintaining moral integrity, even in isolation or challenging situations. Lot’s daughters’ actions are a clear departure from God’s standards, and their story illustrates the broader biblical theme that sin often leads to more sin, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Genesis 19:35 continues the stark and direct narrative style of this story, providing a matter-of-fact recounting of the events without embellishment. The repetition of the previous night’s actions creates a sense of inevitability and deepens the tragic nature of the story. The verse emphasizes the premeditated nature of the daughters’ plan, as well as Lot’s complete unawareness due to his intoxication.
The structure of the verse, with its repetition of key phrases like “got their father to drink wine” and “he was not aware,” reinforces the themes of loss of control and the consequences of actions taken without consideration of God’s will.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 23:31-33: “Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things.” This passage warns of the dangers of excessive drinking, which is directly relevant to Lot’s situation.
- Leviticus 18:6-7: “No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord.” This passage from Leviticus explicitly prohibits the kind of incestuous relationships that are described in Genesis 19:35.
- James 1:14-15: “But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” This verse in James highlights the process by which temptation leads to sin, and how sin leads to destructive consequences, much like the actions of Lot’s daughters.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Genesis 19:35 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting in God’s provision and guidance, especially in challenging situations. It challenges believers to consider how they respond when faced with desperation or fear—whether they turn to God for help or resort to their own flawed reasoning, which can lead to sinful actions.
This verse also highlights the dangers of substance abuse, particularly how it can lead to a loss of control and participation in actions that are against God’s will. Christians are encouraged to be vigilant about their choices and to seek God’s wisdom in all situations.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse, while focused on the sinful actions of Lot’s daughters, still reflects God’s love in that He continues to work through flawed human beings to accomplish His purposes. Despite the sinfulness of their actions, God’s overarching plan for humanity remains intact, demonstrating His patience and willingness to redeem even the most broken situations.
God’s love is also evident in His desire for us to avoid the pitfalls of sin and to live lives that reflect His holiness. He calls us to trust in Him and to seek His guidance, knowing that He is always ready to help us make the right decisions, even in difficult circumstances.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Genesis 19:35 connects to Jesus Christ by highlighting the need for a Savior who can redeem even the most sinful and broken situations. The actions of Lot’s daughters serve as a reminder of the fallen nature of humanity and the consequences of living apart from God’s will. Jesus Christ offers redemption and forgiveness for all sins, including those committed out of fear, desperation, or ignorance.
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides a way for us to be reconciled to God, no matter how far we have strayed. The story of Lot’s daughters underscores the need for a Redeemer who can bring healing and restoration to even the most challenging situations, calling us to live in the light of His grace and to trust in His provision.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when faced with challenging or desperate situations? Do you trust in God’s provision, or are you tempted to take matters into your own hands?
- What does this verse teach you about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of maintaining control over your actions?
- How can you apply the lessons from this passage to your own life, particularly in areas where you might struggle with fear or desperation?
- In what ways does this verse encourage you to seek God’s guidance and to avoid sinful actions, even when the future seems uncertain?
- How does the redemptive work of Jesus Christ offer hope in situations where you have made mistakes or gone astray?
This article aims to help you reflect on the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom, avoiding decisions made out of fear, and relying on the redemption and forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ, encouraging you to live in faith and seek God’s guidance in all areas of your life.