And he pressed vpon them greatly, and they turned in vnto him, and entred into his house: and he made them a feast, and did bake vnleauened bread, and they did eate. Genesis 19:3 (KJV)
This verse belongs to the narrative that leads to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The focus is on Lot, Abraham’s nephew, who encounters two angels sent to warn him of the impending judgment. Lot’s response highlights the ancient Near‑Eastern value of hospitality toward strangers, a virtue that shines amid the city’s pervasive wickedness.
Hospitality of Lot
Lot, living in Sodom, invites the two angels into his home. The text records that “he pressed upon them greatly” and “they turned in unto him,” indicating a strong urging to enter and stay the night. By offering shelter, Lot demonstrates a righteous character that contrasts sharply with the surrounding culture.
Preparation of the feast
The passage notes that Lot “made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread.” A parallel wording from another draft describes the meal as a “feast of curds, and milk, and a kid of the flock, and baked it.” Both descriptions convey that Lot went to great lengths to provide nourishment, preparing curds, milk, a young goat, and unleavened bread for his guests. In biblical culture, sharing a meal signified trust, fellowship, and the establishment of a bond between host and guest.
Symbolic significance
Providing food was more than meeting physical needs; it symbolized a covenant of hospitality and protection. By inviting the angels into his house and feeding them, Lot affirms his willingness to build a relationship grounded in trust, even as the city around him remains hostile.
Foreshadowing the coming events
The hospitality scene sets the stage for the angels’ later proclamation of God’s plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah because of their grievous sins. Lot’s protective actions toward the angels underscore his righteousness and highlight the stark contrast between his conduct and the depravity of the city’s inhabitants.
Overall, Genesis 19:3 showcases Lot’s exemplary hospitality and moral integrity in a corrupt society. It reminds readers of the biblical call to extend kindness and compassion to strangers, and it illustrates how such acts can become the foundation for divine interaction and judgment.
