Genesis 19:38

And the younger, she also bare a son, and called his name Ben–ammi: the same is the father of the children of Ammon unto this day.

Genesis 19:38 (KJV)

Context

Genesis records the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Because their wickedness was great in the sight of God, He sent two angels to rescue Lot and his family before fire and brimstone fell. As they fled, the angels warned them not to look back, but the wife of Lot disobeyed and became a pillar of salt.

After escaping, Lot and his two daughters settled in a mountain cave. Fearful they were the only survivors on the earth, the daughters devised a plan to preserve their father’s lineage. They gave Lot wine on two nights and each had sexual relations with him without his knowledge. Both daughters became pregnant.

Meaning

This verse specifically records the younger daughter giving birth to a son whom she named Ben-ammi. The name “Ben-ammi” means “son of my people” or “son of my kindred.” By choosing this name, the mother emphasized that the child was not a foreigner, but came from her own immediate lineage. This linguistic detail highlights the close relation between the descendants of Lot and Abraham.

The verse explains that Ben-ammi became the father of the Ammonite nation, an ancient people who inhabited the region east of the Jordan River. This serves as a historical marker within Genesis, explaining the origins of a group that would interact frequently with Israel.

Biblical connections

This historical connection is foundational for understanding the relationship between the Israelites and the Ammonites. Because of their shared lineage through Lot, the nephew of Abraham, God instructed the Israelites during their wilderness journey not to harass the Ammonites, recognizing that their land had been given to them as a possession. Despite this familial bond, the Ammonites often became adversaries of Israel in later eras, engaging in territorial disputes during the times of the judges and the Israelite monarchy.

Application

The account of Lot and his family is a complex and morally difficult narrative. It reveals the severe consequences of a family’s actions and shows the danger of making decisions based on fear and desperation instead of trusting God. It demonstrates the far-reaching effects of those choices, as the offspring of this union became the progenitors of a nation that would both live alongside and fight against the people of God.

Reflection

From a theological perspective, this passage illustrates the fallen nature of humanity and the continuing consequences of sin. The Bible does not endorse or condone the actions of the daughters of Lot. Rather, it presents these historical events without explicit moral commentary in this chapter, refusing to hide the failures and shortcomings of its characters. It presents them as flawed individuals in need of redemption. Yet, this history also shows the overarching sovereignty of God, who continues the unfolding of history and works through flawed people to accomplish His purposes.