Genesis 19:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Lot, along with his wife and daughters, was deeply disturbed upon hearing the news. The term ‘disturbed’ signifies that they were filled with dread and fear in response to such a dire warning. In this moment, the angels, looking after the righteous man, “took hold of his hand.” The Scripture speaks of these beings not merely as ordinary people, but explicitly refers to them as angels since their intention was to execute judgment upon the city. It states, “by the favour of the Lord towards him, they took hold of his hand, and of his wife, and of his two daughters.” Their touch served to encourage and uplift them, fortifying their spirits to counteract the paralyzing fear. This is why the Scripture clarifies, “by the Lord's favour upon him.”

Upon Lot's return, he faced mockery from his sons-in-law (Gen. 19:14). The angels took him, his wife, and his two daughters-in-law by the hand and led them out, ensuring that the people of Sodom did not notice their departure amidst the throng.

He was not allowed to leave on his own but was guided away and instructed to refrain from looking back or staying in the land, directing him instead to the mountain. When this command is given to him, it applies to everyone! If you desire to run, do not look behind you; instead, focus ahead. Set your gaze upon Christ, who beckons you, Follow Me (Matt. 16:23), as He called Peter, guiding him to follow Him and behold His glory. Behind lies Sodom, rife with immorality; behind is Gomorrah, overflowing with depravity, a realm of iniquity. The apostle warns, "Touch not, taste not," for all things lead to decay (Colossians 2:21-22). Therefore, escape from Sodom and depart immediately! Abandon the elements of this world, or risk being consumed by the looming peril! Delay not in your flight, nor tarry in this land of sin! He who refrained from looking back has been delivered, while she who glanced back has missed her chance for salvation.

In our quest to leave Egypt and break free from Pharaoh's grip, we recognize the necessity of a figure like Moses, a servant of God who intercedes on our behalf. This mediator stands among our experiences and visions, raising his hands to God for us, so that those who learn from him may navigate the turbulent sea of sins and triumph over the Amalek of their desires. Yet some, as noted by Paisius (Velichkovsky), mistakenly believe they have no need for such guidance, thinking that reliance on themselves is sufficient. However, we see that those who departed from Egypt were led by Moses, and those who escaped Sodom had an angel guiding them.

As dawn broke, the angels urged Lot to leave his belongings behind and flee for his life, assuring him that God would provide for his needs once more, as He never abandons His faithful servants. They urged him with these words: “Arise, take heed of your wife and your two daughters, and escape swiftly from the city, lest you too be swept away with those who are perishing” (Genesis 19:15). The angels grasped Lot, along with his wife and daughters, and guided them away, instructing him: “Preserve your life, depart from this place quickly, do not look back, nor remain in this vicinity, but seek refuge in the mountains, lest you encounter the calamity appointed for Sodom, which shall not overtake you” (Genesis 19:17).

He wavered. Human desires are such that even when faced with great peril, their grip is not easily severed.