Biblical Context:
The account of Abraham interceding for Sodom is found in Genesis 18:16-33. This narrative is set within the broader context of God's covenantal relationship with Abraham and His impending judgment on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah due to their grievous sin.

Narrative Summary:
After the LORD and two angels visit Abraham to reaffirm the promise of a son through Sarah, they set out toward Sodom. Abraham accompanies them to see them off. The LORD then reveals to Abraham His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah, as their sin is exceedingly grave.

Key Verses:
Genesis 18:20-21 : "Then the LORD said, 'The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Because their sin is so grievous, I will go down to see if their actions fully justify the outcry that has reached Me. If not, I will find out.'"

Abraham's Intercession:
Abraham, standing before the LORD, begins to intercede for the city of Sodom. He is deeply concerned about the possibility of righteous individuals being swept away with the wicked. Abraham's intercession is marked by a series of bold yet humble petitions, where he appeals to God's justice and mercy.

Genesis 18:23-25 : "Abraham stepped forward and said, 'Will You really sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will You really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people who are there? Far be it from You to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?'"

The Dialogue:
In a remarkable dialogue, Abraham negotiates with God, progressively lowering the number of righteous individuals required to spare the city—from fifty down to ten. Each time, the LORD agrees to spare the city if that number of righteous people can be found.

Genesis 18:32 : "Finally, he said, 'May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak once more. What if only ten can be found there?' And He answered, 'On account of the ten, I will not destroy it.'"

Theological Themes:
1. Divine Justice and Mercy: The narrative highlights God's justice in addressing sin and His mercy in sparing the righteous. Abraham's appeal to God's character underscores the belief that God is both just and merciful.

2. Intercessory Prayer: Abraham's intercession serves as a powerful example of intercessory prayer, demonstrating the role of a mediator who pleads on behalf of others. It reflects the belief in the efficacy of prayer and the importance of advocating for mercy.

3. Covenantal Relationship: Abraham's boldness in approaching God is rooted in the covenantal relationship established between them. This relationship allows Abraham to engage in a candid dialogue with God, reflecting the intimacy and trust inherent in their covenant.

4. Human Agency and Divine Will: The narrative illustrates the dynamic interaction between human agency and divine will. Abraham's intercession suggests that human appeals can influence divine action, while ultimately affirming God's sovereign will.

Cultural and Historical Insights:
The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were located in the region of the Dead Sea, known for its fertility and prosperity. However, these cities became synonymous with moral depravity and divine judgment. The narrative reflects ancient Near Eastern concepts of justice, where the presence of righteous individuals could avert communal punishment.

Literary Features:
The passage is characterized by its dialogical structure, with a repetitive pattern that emphasizes the earnestness of Abraham's plea and the patience of God. The use of rhetorical questions by Abraham serves to highlight the moral and ethical dimensions of divine justice.

Significance in Biblical Canon:
This account is pivotal in illustrating the nature of God's justice and mercy, as well as the role of intercession. It foreshadows later biblical themes of advocacy and mediation, ultimately pointing to the intercessory work of Christ.