What is the definition of sodomy in the Bible?

The term "sodomy" is one that has carried significant weight and controversy within Christian discourse, particularly in discussions about sexual ethics and morality. To understand what the Bible says about sodomy, we must first explore the origins of the term and its biblical context, and then consider how it has been interpreted and applied in Christian thought over the centuries.

The term "sodomy" is derived from the name of the ancient city of Sodom, which, along with its neighboring city Gomorrah, was destroyed by God because of its grievous sins. The primary biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction is found in Genesis 18-19. In Genesis 18, God informs Abraham that the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great and their sin is very grave (Genesis 18:20). Abraham intercedes for the cities, and God agrees to spare them if even ten righteous people can be found there. However, in Genesis 19, we see that only Lot and his family are deemed righteous enough to be spared.

The specific sin that led to Sodom's destruction is often debated, but a key incident is described in Genesis 19:4-11. Two angels, appearing as men, visit Lot in Sodom. The men of the city surround Lot’s house and demand to have sexual relations with the visitors. Lot offers his daughters instead, but the men persist, and the angels intervene to prevent the assault. This passage has led many to associate the sin of Sodom with homosexual acts, giving rise to the term "sodomy" to describe such behavior.

However, to fully understand the biblical definition of sodomy, we must consider other scriptural references and the broader context of Sodom's sin. In Ezekiel 16:49-50, God provides a more comprehensive list of Sodom's transgressions: "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy. They were haughty and did detestable things before me. Therefore I did away with them as you have seen." Here, the sins of Sodom include pride, gluttony, neglect of the poor, and general detestable behavior, suggesting that the city's destruction was due to a combination of moral failings, not solely sexual immorality.

The New Testament also references Sodom and its sins. In Jude 1:7, we read, "In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire." This verse emphasizes the sexual immorality and perversion of Sodom, reinforcing the association with sexual sins. Additionally, 2 Peter 2:6-8 describes how God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly, and highlights Lot's distress over the "lawless deeds" he witnessed.

In Christian theology, the term "sodomy" has traditionally been used to refer to certain sexual acts, particularly homosexual acts. This interpretation is rooted in the Genesis account and reinforced by passages like Jude 1:7 and 2 Peter 2:6-8. However, it is important to note that the broader biblical context includes a range of sins, including pride, inhospitality, and neglect of the needy, suggesting that Sodom's destruction was not solely due to sexual immorality.

Throughout church history, various Christian writers and theologians have weighed in on the issue. For example, St. Augustine, in his work "The City of God," interprets the sin of Sodom primarily as a violation of hospitality. Thomas Aquinas, in his "Summa Theologica," discusses sodomy as a form of unnatural vice, focusing on the sexual aspect. The interpretation of sodomy has thus evolved over time, reflecting broader theological and cultural shifts.

In contemporary Christian thought, particularly within non-denominational circles, there is a recognition of the need to balance scriptural truth with compassion and grace. While the Bible clearly condemns certain sexual behaviors, it also calls believers to love and care for all people, regardless of their sins. Jesus' interactions with sinners, such as the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11), demonstrate a model of grace and truth. He does not condone sin but offers forgiveness and a call to repentance.

In conclusion, the biblical definition of sodomy is rooted in the narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah, where sexual immorality, particularly homosexual acts, is a key aspect of the city's sin. However, a comprehensive biblical understanding also includes other moral failings such as pride, inhospitality, and neglect of the poor. Christian thought has historically emphasized the sexual component of sodomy, but contemporary interpretations often seek a more holistic understanding of the biblical text. Ultimately, Christians are called to uphold biblical standards of morality while extending grace and love to all individuals.