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The text of Genesis 19:17 presents a fascinating case study in Old Testament textual criticism, particularly in how it reflects on the narrative involving Lot and his family’s escape from Sodom. The Masoretic Text (MT), which is the authoritative Hebrew text for many Jewish and Christian communities, reads “וַיֹּ֙אמֶר֙,” which we translate as “one said” or “he said.” This reading implies a single speaker giving the command to flee. However, the Septuagint (LXX), the Peshitta (Syr.), and the Vulgate (Vg.) diverge from this by using a plural form, effectively translating as “they said.”

This variance between the singular and plural forms of the verb “to say” can significantly impact our understanding of the narrative. In the Masoretic Text, the command to flee seems to come from a single entity, possibly one of the angels or perhaps representing a divine voice. This interpretation aligns with the broader context where one angel might be seen as taking a leading role in delivering God’s message. The singular command also adds a layer of urgency and personal responsibility to Lot’s actions, emphasizing one authoritative voice directing him to safety.

Conversely, the readings in the LXX, Syr., and Vg. suggest a collective action by both angels, which could imply a shared divine authority or perhaps a more communal approach to the deliverance of Lot and his family. This plural command might also reflect a broader involvement of divine beings in the narrative, highlighting the cooperative aspect of the angelic mission. It could be argued that this plural form adds to the dramatic tension, portraying a more active and perhaps even more terrifying scenario where multiple voices are urging immediate escape.

The textual variant here does not drastically alter the theological implications of the passage but does offer different nuances in how one might visualize or interpret the scene. The decision between “one said” or “they said” could be influenced by theological leanings, manuscript traditions, or even scribal habits. In some instances, scribes might harmonize texts with similar narratives elsewhere in Scripture or with theological preferences for emphasizing either the unity or plurality of divine action.

In the Updated American Standard Version (UASV), the translators have chosen to follow the Masoretic Text but include a footnote to acknowledge the variant readings. This approach allows readers to recognize the textual tradition’s diversity while still adhering to what is generally considered the most authoritative Hebrew text. The footnote serves as an educational tool, informing readers of the manuscript evidence and encouraging further study into the textual history of the Old Testament.

This variation in Genesis 19:17 serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in textual criticism. Each choice in translation or interpretation can subtly shift the narrative’s focus, from the individual command of a singular divine messenger to the collective urgency of multiple divine agents. It underscores the importance of engaging with the original languages and manuscript traditions to gain a fuller appreciation of the scriptural text’s depth and richness.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).