Lot’s Early Life
Lot was Abraham’s nephew, born to Abraham’s brother Nahor and wife Milcah. He was from an affluent family, and was best known for his connection to Abraham’s herds of livestock. He and Abraham were both shepherds, and together they separated from their family in the land of Mesopotamia to travel south to the land of Canaan. Lot and Abraham maintained a close relationship for many years, and during the journey to Canaan, the two families remained together.
When the two reached Canaan, the land was already populated by many people. Abraham and Lot became very successful, and soon their herds and flocks of animals grew too big for the land. Abraham wanted Lot to have the better portion of the land, so he allowed Lot to choose. Lot chose to move to the Jordan Valley, specifically to the city of Sodom.
Lot in Sodom
Lot moved to Sodom and began a new life, although it was not an easy one. The city was full of wicked people and unethical activities. In time, Lot became a religious leader and attempted to help the people of Sodom turn from their wicked ways. However, his efforts were in vain and did not help end the city’s wickedness.
Lot and his family were eventually expelled from Sodom, as the people of Sodom were about to destroy the city. Two angels had come to warn Lot and his family to flee, and Lot obediently followed their instructions. As the four of them fled the city, Lot’s wife looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt.
Lot and His Daughters
Lot and his two daughters were the only survivors of the destruction of Sodom. The three of them took refuge in a cave far away from civilization. Without any food or water, they were on the brink of starvation. His daughters decided to take matters into their own hands, and took turns in getting their father drunk so they could then sleep with him to bear children. In this way, they were eventually able to conceive two sons: Moab and Ben-Ammi. With his new sons, Lot moved back to the Jordan Valley and rejoined his family.
Lot’s Death
Lot’s death is not detailed in the Bible, and it is unknown how he died. It is believed that his death must have happened not long after he rejoined his family. The text does not give us an exact date for his death, but it is believed that he died sometime during the reigns of Temple and Saul, suggesting he lived well over 90 years old.
Analysis of Lot’s Death
Lot was a righteous individual, having followed the instructions of God throughout his life. He was also a leader and a faithful worship of God, and despite his many troubles, remained loyal to his Creator. It is speculated that Lot died a happy and content death at an advanced age, surrounded by his loving family.
Lot’s Legacy
Lot is remembered as a righteous man that had experienced difficult trials in his life, yet remained faithful to God. His legacy endured long after his death, as his descendants founded the nations of Moab and Ammon. The nation of Ammon was a particularly powerful one, and Lot’s legacy is kept alive to this day in many places in the Middle East.
The Lessons Learned from Lot’s Life
Lot’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience to God. Despite the difficult challenges that were present in his life, he remained loyal to God, never wavering from his path. We can take insight from Lot’s life and apply it to our own lives, remembering that no matter how tough things may seem, God’s plan for us is greater than anything we can imagine.
Lot’s Wisdom
Lot was a wise man and he passed his wisdom down through generations. He taught his descendants to stay true to their faith in God and to remain righteous. Furthermore, he taught them to be kind and compassionate to strangers, as they themselves had been welcomed into a new land by strangers. Lot’s wisdom still guides many people to this day, showing that even long after his death, he still influences the lives of people.
Lot’s Impact on His Descendants
Lot also had a lasting impact on his descendants. His descendants venerated him as a hero, and consequently, his legacy was remembered for generations to come. He taught them to remain loyal to God, no matter the circumstances, and his example was followed by many. His legacy was carried forward through the nations of Moab and Ammon, who continued his legacy of faith and compassion throughout their long history.
