Sodom

The name of that is transliterated as “Sodom” in English means “flaming,” “burning,” “mystery.” (Source: Cornwall / Smith 1997 )

Sodom and the story of its depravity, especially the attempted rape of the visitors to Lot, has come to refer to “sodomy” in many modern languages, including English, and many other European and non-European languages.

See also Onan.

Click or tap here to see a short video clip about Sodom (source: Bible Lands 2012)

Lot

The Hebrew and Greek that is transliterated as “Lot” in English is translated in Spanish Sign Language with a sign that signifies “cousin,” referring to the fact that Lot is Abraham’s cousin (see Genesis 11:27). (Source: Steve Parkhurst)


“Lot” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

More information on Lot (biblical person) .

complete verse (Genesis 14:12)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Genesis 14:12:

  • Kankanaey: “They also ran-off-with Abram’s nephew Lot and his possessions, because in Sodoma just the same was where-he-was-inhabiting.” (Source: Kankanaey Back Translation)
  • Newari: “They [also] took Lot, Abraham’s nephew, who was living in Sodom, along with his wealth.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “All possessions of Sodom and Gomora including their food were-taken by their enemies. They also took-captive Lot the nephew of Abram and took his possessions, for it happened that he was-living there in Sodom. After the enemies had-taken they walked/went-away.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “They also captured Abram’s nephew Lot and his possessions, since he was living in Sodom at that time.” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on Genesis 14:12

Verse 12 serves as a transition to the story of the next battle and sets the stage for introducing Abram, who is the hero of the rest of the story. Revised Standard Version, which reflects the Hebrew word and clause order, is an awkward translation that will often require rearranging to make it clear and natural in style.

Translators may find it necessary to make clear that Lot is carried off because he lives in Sodom. Therefore Biblia Dios Habla Hoy says “Since Lot, Abram’s nephew, was living in Sodom, he also was taken prisoner along with all his possessions.” Good News Translation accomplishes the same purpose with “Lot, Abram’s nephew, was living in Sodom, so they took him and all his possessions.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .