King James Version
Genesis 18:21 in the King James Version says “I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if ...” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.”
Genesis 18:21 · KJV
For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.
And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;
I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.
And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.
And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“I will go down”
H3381to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction
“now and see”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
“whether they have done”
H6213to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“unto me and if not I will know”
H3045to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Genesis 18:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Genesis 18:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge