Σόδομα (Sodoma)
Sodoma
Sodom
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The proper noun Sodoma refers to the ancient city whose destruction by fire and brimstone became a defining symbol of divine judgment in Scripture. The name itself carries the meaning "burning," a detail that aligns with the narrative of its sudden and total ruin. This event is recorded not only in Genesis but serves as a recurring historical reference point for Jesus and the apostles.
Jesus frequently invoked Sodoma to warn against rejecting his message, noting that cities like Capernaum would face harsher judgment than this infamous place (Matthew 11:23-24). The New Testament uses the city’s fate as a stark example of God’s power to rescue the righteous while destroying the ungodly, as seen in the letters of Peter and Jude. In Revelation, the name even takes on a new layer of meaning, symbolically describing Jerusalem.
Its repeated appearance across the Gospels, epistles, and apocalyptic literature underscores its weight as a theological marker. It stands not just as a geographic location but as a permanent reminder of the consequences of persistent wickedness and the seriousness of spiritual rejection.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Sodom appears throughout Scripture not merely as a historical footnote, but as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. Its destruction serves as a stark warning against persistent wickedness and the rejection of divine truth. When Jesus referenced this city, He used it to highlight the seriousness of hearing His message and responding in faith.
Yet the narrative also reveals God’s character as both just and merciful. While judgment fell upon those who refused to change, Lot was rescued because of God’s grace. This balance reminds us that God desires repentance and offers hope even when circumstances seem dire. We are invited to trust in His justice while resting in His mercy.
Understanding Sodom helps us appreciate the urgency of sharing the gospel. It calls us to live with integrity and to value our relationship with Christ above all else, knowing that He is faithful to save those who turn to Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Sodom4×
- of Sodom3×
- for Sodom2×
- Sodom,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Σόδομα3×
- Σοδόμων3×
- Σοδόμοις3×
- Σοδόμων,1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 10:15
Most certainly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.
Jesus uses Sodom to illustrate the severity of rejecting His messengers, showing that accountability increases with greater revelation.
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Luke 17:29
but in the day that Lot went out from Sodom, it rained fire and sulfur from the sky and destroyed them all.
This verse describes the suddenness of divine judgment, emphasizing that destruction came unexpectedly on the day Lot departed.
-
II Peter 2:6
and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, having made them an example to those who would live in an ungodly way,
Peter presents Sodom as a historical example for those living ungodly lives, demonstrating God’s power to condemn and destroy wickedness.
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Revelation of John 11:8
Their dead bodies will be in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified.
John symbolically applies the name Sodom to Jerusalem, linking spiritual rebellion with the city where Jesus was crucified.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sodom represent in the Bible?
Why does Jesus mention Sodom in the Gospels?
Is Sodom mentioned in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (10 verses across 7 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Most certainly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for…
Matthew 11:23You, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, you will go down to Hades. For if the mighty works had been done in Sodom…
Matthew 11:24But I tell you that it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment, than for you.”