Definition: And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 18:26. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious passage in the Bible that speaks about God's plan to protect a group of people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is looking after a specific group of people – the righteous – who are living in a city called Sodom. He wants to ensure they’re safe and protected, even if there are some bad guys in the area. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said…” : This tells us that God is actively involved and has a plan. “…If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city…” : This is the core of the verse. "Righteous" means morally good, right, and just – someone who lives according to God’s laws. The verse says God is looking for fifty people who are truly good and have a good heart. “…then I will spare all the place for their sakes.” : This is the key part! If God finds 50 righteous people in Sodom, he promises to save everything in that city – not just the bad guys. He’s promising a huge act of protection and care. What does this tell us about God? It suggests several things: God cares deeply about justice: He's willing to intervene to protect those who are good, even if it means taking a risk. God is a protector: He’s actively involved in safeguarding His people and the world from evil. God has a plan for redemption: It hints at a larger story of God’s plan to bring about a better future – perhaps through mercy and forgiveness. Important Note: The exact meaning and interpretation of this verse have been debated throughout history. It's a complex passage that invites us to think about God’s love, His judgment, and the possibility of redemption. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Genesis? Talk about why this verse is considered significant in religious tradition?