21 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.

Other Translations of Genesis 18:21

New International Version

21 that I will go down and see if what they have done is as bad as the outcry that has reached me. If not, I will know."

English Standard Version

21 I will go down to see whether they have done altogetherOr they deserve destruction; Hebrew they have made a complete end according to the outcry that has come to me. And if not, I will know."

The Message

21 I'm going down to see for myself, see if what they're doing is as bad as it sounds. Then I'll know."

New King James Version

21 I will go down now and see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry against it that has come to Me; and if not, I will know."

New Living Translation

21 I am going down to see if their actions are as wicked as I have heard. If not, I want to know."

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 18:21

Commentary on Genesis 18:16-22

(Read Genesis 18:16-22)

The two who are supposed to have been created angels went toward Sodom. The one who is called Jehovah throughout the chapter, continued with Abraham, and would not hide from him the thing he intended to do. Though God long forbears with sinners, from which they fancy that the Lord does not see, and does not regard; yet when the day of his wrath comes, he will look toward them. The Lord will give Abraham an opportunity to intercede with him, and shows him the reason of his conduct. Consider, as a very bright part of Abraham's character and example, that he not only prayed with his family, but he was very careful to teach and rule them well. Those who expect family blessings must make conscience of family duty. Abraham did not fill their heads with matters of doubtful dispute; but he taught them to be serious and devout in the worship of God, and to be honest in their dealings with all men. Of how few may such a character be given in our days! How little care is taken by masters of families to ground those under them in the principles of religion! Do we watch from sabbath to sabbath whether they go forward or backward?