Catholic Public Domain Version
Genesis 19:31
“And the elder said to the younger: "Our father is old, and no man remains in the land who can enter to us according to the custom of the whole world.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Genesis 19:31.
Plain-language explanation
The older sister points out a problem: their father is very old, and there seems to be no one left in the land who could come and marry them “according to the custom” followed by people elsewhere in the world.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read this as part of a larger, troubling episode (Genesis 19) after Sodom and Gomorrah. The goal the sisters mention—continuing their family line—can be understood as serious in the biblical world, but the way events unfold also shows human fear and compromise rather than God’s clear guidance.
Historical background
In the ancient Near East, marriage and family lineage were deeply tied to identity and inheritance. When the verse says “according to the custom of the whole world,” it reflects the idea that there were common social expectations for marriage and having descendants—even though the surrounding society here had been devastated.
Reflection
This line captures anxiety and uncertainty: “Our father is old” and “no man remains” becomes a rationale driven by fear. It’s a reminder that when people feel stuck, they can begin to justify choices without first trusting God’s direction.
Practical takeaway
When you feel cornered, don’t rush to “solve” the situation by compromise. Pause, pray, and seek wisdom—because fear can make bad choices sound reasonable.
Prayer
Lord God, help me trust You when my plans feel impossible. Keep my heart from choosing what is easy or justified by fear, and guide me toward what is right. Give me courage to seek Your will and strength to live it. Amen.