In the Bible, “sodomising” refers to the sinful and immoral actions associated with the people of Sodom, described in Genesis 18–19. These sins included sexual immorality, violence, exploitation, pride, neglect of the needy, and rebellion against God.

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah shows God’s righteous judgment, but the narrative also reveals His mercy and patience.

The Biblical Story of Sodom and Gomorrah

The meaning of sodomising in the Bible begins with the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, two cities whose wickedness became notorious.

God’s Warning to Abraham

In Genesis 18, God reveals His plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah because of their grievous sins:

“The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin so grievous…” — Genesis 18:20

Abraham intercedes on their behalf, asking God if He would spare the cities for the sake of the righteous. God agrees, but not even ten righteous people are found, showing the depth of corruption.

Lot’s Hospitality and the City’s Wickedness

In Genesis 19, two angels, disguised as travellers, arrive in Sodom and are welcomed by Lot, Abraham’s nephew. But soon, the men of the city surround Lot’s house, demanding to sexually exploit his guests.

This shocking act exposes the people’s complete moral collapse. Their actions reflect a society consumed by selfishness, violence, and rebellion against God’s design.

Also Read: How Does Psalm 90 Help Us Think About the Exile?

The Meaning of “Sodomising” in Scripture

The term “sodomising” originates from this event and is often misunderstood. While many associate it only with sexual immorality, the Bible paints a much broader picture of Sodom’s sins.

Sodom’s Sins Went Far Beyond Sexual Acts

• Sexual immorality and unnatural desires (Jude 1:7)
• Pride and arrogance (Ezekiel 16:49)
• Neglecting the poor and vulnerable
• Violence and exploitation of strangers
• Rebellion against God’s authority

“Sodomising,” therefore, refers to living in persistent rebellion against God’s commands — a lifestyle marked by exploitation, injustice, and moral corruption.

God’s Judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah

“Then the Lord rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the Lord out of the heavens.” — Genesis 19:24

When the people refused to repent, God’s judgment came swiftly and completely. Fire and sulfur destroyed the cities, leaving them as a warning for future generations.

Justice and Mercy Together

• He warned Abraham beforehand.
• He rescued Lot and his family from destruction.
• He showed patience, delaying punishment until corruption was beyond repair.

This balance between justice and mercy shows God’s desire to save rather than condemn — but it also reveals the seriousness of unrepentant sin.

Prophetic References to Sodom

The Bible refers to Sodom multiple times after Genesis, showing that its meaning extends beyond one historical event.

Ezekiel’s Perspective

In Ezekiel 16:49, God highlights the roots of Sodom’s sin:

“She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy.”

This expands our understanding of “sodomising” — it wasn’t just about sexual immorality but also about selfishness, injustice, and neglecting compassion.

Jude and Isaiah’s Warnings

• Jude 1:7 describes Sodom’s pursuit of unnatural desires, confirming their rejection of God’s design.
• Isaiah 1:10 compares Israel’s rebellion to Sodom’s, warning God’s people not to follow the same path.

Across Scripture, Sodom becomes a symbol of persistent rebellion and a warning about the consequences of turning away from God.

Also Read: I Heard a Voice After Reciting This Psalm 7 Times

Lessons from Sodom and Gomorrah

The story of Sodom isn’t just a historical account — it carries timeless lessons for believers today.

God’s Standards Are Unchanging

Sodom’s downfall reminds us that while societies may redefine morality, God’s design for justice, holiness, and compassion never changes.

Neglecting Compassion Leads to Ruin

One of Sodom’s greatest sins was ignoring the poor and vulnerable. A society that abandons compassion moves closer to destruction.

Mercy Comes Before Judgment

Before destruction, God warned Abraham, sent angels to rescue Lot, and gave opportunities for repentance. This shows that God’s grace always precedes judgment.

Faithfulness in a Corrupt World

Like Lot, believers today are called to live righteously even in environments filled with moral decay, standing firm in God’s truth.

Sodomising and Modern Life

While today “sodomising” is often reduced to one meaning, its biblical context is broader and deeper. It warns against:

• Exploiting others for personal gain
• Rejecting God’s authority
• Living without justice, mercy, or humility

Sodom’s story reminds us that turning away from God leads to spiritual exile, but His mercy offers a way back to restoration.