Was Lot Acting Selfishly or Selflessly in His Choice of Land?

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The Context of Lot’s Decision

The account in Genesis 13:5–11 describes the growing tension between Abraham’s and Lot’s herdsmen due to the increasing size of their flocks and herds. As a result, Abraham proposed a peaceful resolution:

“Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.” (Genesis 13:8–9)

This offer placed the decision in Lot’s hands. Looking down into the Jordan Valley, he saw that it was well-watered, much like Egypt and the “garden of Jehovah” (Genesis 13:10). He then chose the plain of Jordan and moved eastward. Many have interpreted Lot’s choice as selfish, but is that the most accurate conclusion?

Abraham’s Selfless Initiative

Before examining Lot’s decision, it is important to acknowledge Abraham’s selflessness. As the elder and the patriarch of the family, he had every right to dictate the terms of their separation. Instead, he allowed Lot the first choice, demonstrating humility and a desire to maintain peace. This act reflected Abraham’s godly character, which consistently prioritized harmony over personal gain (Genesis 13:8; Romans 12:18).

Abraham’s offer itself may have already taken into consideration Lot’s needs. Being younger, Lot may have required a more fertile land to establish himself, while Abraham, with greater experience and divine assurance, was content wherever Jehovah placed him (Genesis 12:1–3). This was not an act of weakness on Abraham’s part, but rather a mark of faith and leadership.

Was Lot’s Decision Selfish?

Lot’s decision to choose the Jordan Valley was based on practical considerations. The land was fertile, well-watered, and suitable for his flocks. However, several factors suggest that Lot was not necessarily acting out of selfish ambition:

The Jordan Valley’s Climate Was Harsh
While the land was fertile, it was also extremely hot and humid in the summer, making it an uncomfortable place to dwell. This explains why neither Abraham nor Lot had settled there earlier. Abraham remained in the hill country, where the climate was more temperate.
Lot Had to Uproot and Adapt
Rather than insisting on staying in their current location, Lot agreed to move. This required adapting to a new area, a task that would not have been easy. By choosing the Jordan Valley, he took on the burden of relocation rather than forcing Abraham to move.
Lot’s Choice May Have Been a Practical Necessity
The plain of Jordan may have been one of the only viable places to sustain Lot’s growing herds. The separation was necessary to avoid further conflict, and Lot’s choice could have been motivated by the need for ample grazing land rather than pure self-interest.
Scripture Declares Lot to Be Righteous
Second Peter 2:7–8 states that Lot was “greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the irreverent men” and that he was a “righteous man” who was tormented by the lawless deeds around him. If Lot had been motivated by greed or self-centeredness, it is unlikely that he would have been described in such terms.

The Consequences of Lot’s Choice

Though Lot’s decision may not have been selfish, it did lead him into dangerous surroundings. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were already known for their wickedness (Genesis 13:13). Lot likely did not intend to immerse himself in such an environment, but his proximity to Sodom eventually led to moral and spiritual challenges for his family (Genesis 19:1–29).

His move to the Jordan Valley, while initially beneficial in terms of resources, ultimately exposed him to influences that proved disastrous. This highlights an important lesson: a choice that appears advantageous from a material standpoint may come with unforeseen spiritual consequences.

Conclusion

Lot’s selection of the Jordan Valley was not necessarily an act of selfishness. He made a logical decision based on the fertility of the land and his need to separate from Abraham’s household. Meanwhile, Abraham’s offer demonstrated remarkable selflessness and trust in Jehovah.

The true lesson of this account lies not in Lot’s perceived selfishness but in the wisdom of choosing one’s environment carefully. Lot’s decision brought him near an ungodly society, which ultimately led to hardship and loss. In contrast, Abraham, by prioritizing faith over material gain, remained in the safety of Jehovah’s guidance.

Ultimately, this account reinforces the biblical principle found in Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

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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).