Definition: Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Genesis 19:22. It's a really important and unsettling verse in the beginning of the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: God is watching over his people and is very concerned about their behavior. He’s setting a clear boundary – a place where things are going to be incredibly dangerous for everyone involved. Let's look at the parts: “Genesis 19:22 Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither.” This is the core of the message. God is telling Noah (who’s in a tent with his family) to immediately leave the area. He's saying he can't help anyone until they are safely inside the city. The word “haste” means to hurry or act quickly. “Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.” Because Noah and his family were so desperate to escape, God decided to give the city a very unusual name – “Zoar.” This name reflects the horrific things that would happen there. It's a place of darkness and despair, symbolizing a place where wickedness thrives. What it’s really about: This verse is a warning about the dangers of sin and pride. It highlights a few key points: God’s Watchful Eye: God is constantly watching over his people, and He doesn't tolerate evil. The Consequences of Pride: The story shows that when people become arrogant and self-centered (like Sodom), they’re open to being punished. They've lost their way and are now facing a terrible fate. God’s Sovereignty: God is in control, and He has the power to protect his people from harm. In short, this verse tells us that when we act with wickedness or pride, we invite disaster. We need to repent (turn away from our bad habits) and seek God's help before it's too late. Important Note: This story is a powerful example of God’s judgment and the importance of obedience to His commands. It’s a reminder that sin has consequences, and we must strive to live a righteous life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Genesis 19 verse? Discuss what this story teaches us about forgiveness or redemption?