Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin:Sodomy is a term historically used to describe certain sexual acts, particularly those considered unnatural or immoral according to biblical standards. The term derives from the biblical city of Sodom, which, along with Gomorrah, was destroyed by God due to the grievous sins of its inhabitants. The narrative of Sodom is primarily found in Genesis 18-19. Biblical Account: The city of Sodom is first mentioned in Genesis 13:13, where it is noted, "Now the men of Sodom were wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD." The most detailed account of Sodom's sinfulness and subsequent destruction is found in Genesis 19. Two angels visit Lot, Abraham's nephew, in Sodom. The men of the city surround Lot's house and demand to have sexual relations with the visitors, demonstrating the city's moral depravity. Genesis 19:5 states, "They called out to Lot and asked, 'Where are the men who came to you tonight? Send them out to us so we can have relations with them!'" Divine Judgment: The wickedness of Sodom and Gomorrah leads to divine judgment. In Genesis 19:24-25, the LORD rains down sulfur and fire upon the cities, resulting in their complete destruction: "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground." Biblical References and Interpretations: The sin of Sodom is referenced throughout the Bible as a symbol of extreme moral corruption and divine judgment. In Ezekiel 16:49-50, the prophet highlights the broader sins of Sodom, including pride, gluttony, and neglect of the poor: "Now this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters had arrogance, abundant food, and careless ease, but she did not help the poor and needy. Thus they were haughty and committed abominations before Me. Therefore I removed them, as you have seen." In the New Testament, Jude 1:7 refers to Sodom and Gomorrah as examples of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire due to sexual immorality and perversion: "In like manner, Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them, who indulged in sexual immorality and pursued strange flesh, are on display as an example of those who sustain the punishment of eternal fire." Theological Implications: Sodomy, as derived from the biblical narrative, is often associated with acts that deviate from the sexual ethics prescribed in Scripture. The destruction of Sodom serves as a warning against such behaviors and underscores the importance of adhering to God's moral laws. The biblical portrayal of Sodom emphasizes the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance and righteousness. Cultural and Historical Context: Throughout history, the term "sodomy" has been used in various legal and religious contexts to describe and condemn certain sexual practices. It has often been associated with homosexuality, although the broader biblical context includes a range of immoral behaviors. The account of Sodom has been influential in shaping Judeo-Christian views on sexual ethics and morality. Contemporary Relevance: In modern discussions, the account of Sodom is frequently cited in debates over sexual morality and ethics. It serves as a reference point for understanding biblical perspectives on human sexuality and the consequences of deviating from divine commandments. The narrative continues to be a significant element in theological discourse and moral teaching within the Christian tradition. Topical Bible Verses Leviticus 18:22You shall not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. Topicalbible.org Leviticus 20:13 Romans 1:27 1 Kings 14:24 Deuteronomy 23:17 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Carnal copulation in a manner against nature; buggery.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SODOMYsod'-o-mi. Library Christians Proved Innocent by their Contempt of Death. Guilt of Exposing Children. Other Opinions of the Philosophers. What are the Sins Forbidden in the Seventh Commandment? What I have Now Said, Then, is Offered not for the Purpose of ... Of Lot's Deliverance from Sodom, and Its Consumption by Fire from ... Let those who have Been or who are Guilty of Bestial Lusts... The First Canonical Epistle of Our Holy Father Basil, Archbishop ... Whether the Unnatural vice is a Species of Lust? Whether the Unnatural vice is the Greatest Sin among the Species ... Thesaurus Sodomy... (n.) Carnal copulation in a manner against nature; buggery. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SODOMY. sod'-o-mi. See SODOM; SODOMITE; CRIMES; PUNISHMENTS. ... /s/sodomy.htm - 6k Soever (24 Occurrences) Male (303 Occurrences) Sodomite (1 Occurrence) Sodom (49 Occurrences) Sodomitish Crimes (22 Occurrences) Crime (45 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about anal sex? What is sodomy according to the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgSexual Sin ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah? | GotQuestions.org Sodomy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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