Genesis 19:1 - Angels visit Sodom's fateful gate

The Arrival of the Angels in Sedom

The verse describes the arrival of two angels in Sedom in the evening, where Lot was sitting at the city gate. Rashi (Bereshit 19:1) explains that these angels were the same ones who had visited Avraham earlier—one to overturn Sedom and the other to save Lot. Their appearance in the evening is significant, as the Gemara (Bava Metzia 86b) notes that angels typically come in the evening when people are more settled, allowing them to perform their missions discreetly.

Lot's Position at the Gate

Lot is described as sitting "בְּשַׁעַר־סְדֹם" (at the gate of Sedom), which Ramban (Bereshit 19:1) interprets as a sign of his high social standing. In ancient cities, the gate was where leaders and judges convened (Devarim 21:19). However, the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 50:3) criticizes Lot for aligning himself with the wicked people of Sedom, despite his outward righteousness in welcoming guests.

Lot's Hospitality and Bowing

Lot immediately rises and bows "אַפַּיִם אָרְצָה" (with his face to the ground), demonstrating extreme reverence. The Kli Yakar (Bereshit 19:1) contrasts Lot’s excessive bowing with Avraham’s more measured hospitality, suggesting that Lot’s actions were influenced by the corrupt environment of Sedom, where kindness was rare and thus exaggerated when displayed. The Talmud (Chullin 91b) notes that bowing fully was a sign of recognizing the divine nature of his guests, as angels do not require such honor from humans.

• Rashi: The angels had dual missions—destruction and salvation.
• Ramban: Sitting at the gate indicated Lot’s leadership role.
• Midrash: Critiques Lot’s moral compromise despite his hospitality.
• Kli Yakar: Contrasts Lot’s exaggerated reverence with Avraham’s balanced approach.