Genesis 6:21

KJV

And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather [it] to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And take {H3947} thou unto thee of all food {H3978} that is eaten {H398}, and thou shalt gather {H622} it to thee; and it shall be for food {H402} for thee, and for them.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also take from all the kinds of food that are eaten, and collect it for yourself; it is to be food for you and for them.”

Berean Standard Bible

You are also to take for yourself every kind of food that is eaten and gather it as food for yourselves and for the animals.”

American Standard Version

And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 6:21 records God's meticulous and comprehensive command to Noah, instructing him to gather and store a vast array of provisions for all life aboard the Ark. This divine directive underscores God's foresight in preserving humanity and the animal kingdom from the impending global flood, while simultaneously highlighting Noah's unwavering obedience and diligent stewardship in fulfilling every detail of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This specific command for provisioning is strategically placed within God's detailed instructions to Noah for the construction of the Ark and the preservation of life. Preceding this verse, God has already outlined the Ark's design and dimensions in [Genesis 6:14-16](/genesis/6-14-16 "God's Detailed Instructions for Building the Ark") and commanded Noah to bring two of every kind of living creature, male and female, into the Ark in [Genesis 6:19-20](/genesis/6-19-20 "The Command to Bring Animals into the Ark"). Genesis 6:21 then addresses the crucial logistical challenge of sustaining this diverse population for an extended period, demonstrating the thoroughness of God's plan. It signifies that divine preservation is not merely about shelter and companionship, but also about the practical sustenance of life. Noah's immediate and complete obedience to all these commands is emphasized in [Genesis 6:22](/genesis/6-22 "Noah's Obedience to God's Commands"), setting the stage for the unfolding narrative of the flood.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In a pre-industrial agrarian society, the task of gathering "all food that is eaten" for potentially thousands of animals and eight humans for over a year (as implied by the flood's duration in [Genesis 7:11](/genesis/7-11 "The Beginning of the Flood") and [Genesis 8:14](/genesis/8-14 "The Earth is Dry")) was monumental. There were no large-scale storage facilities, advanced preservation techniques, or global supply chains. Noah would have relied on local flora and fauna, requiring immense labor, foresight, and knowledge of diverse dietary needs. This command highlights the unprecedented nature of the impending judgment and the extraordinary preparation required. Unlike typical agricultural cycles, this was a one-time, massive collection for an unknown, extended period, demanding an unparalleled act of faith and diligence from Noah and his family. The sheer scale of the undertaking underscores the severity of God's judgment and the depth of His commitment to preserving a remnant.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 6:21 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Provision**, showcasing God's meticulous care not only for humanity but for all His creation, even amidst judgment, as seen in His provision for Israel in the wilderness in [Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "God Provides Manna and Quail"). It also highlights **Human Responsibility and Stewardship**, as Noah is actively commanded to gather and manage resources, rather than passively awaiting miraculous provision, a theme echoed in humanity's initial mandate to tend the garden in [Genesis 2:15](/genesis/2-15 "Man to Tend the Garden"). Furthermore, the verse emphasizes **Obedience and Trust**, as Noah's willingness to undertake such a daunting task demonstrates his profound faith in God's word, a hallmark of his character throughout the flood narrative, culminating in his faithful sacrifice in [Genesis 8:20](/genesis/8-20 "Noah Builds an Altar and Offers Sacrifices"). Finally, it underscores the theme of **Preservation and New Creation**, as the sustenance gathered ensures the continuity of life, paving the way for a renewed world after the flood, a concept later fulfilled in Christ's work of new creation in [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "New Creation in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 6:21 presents a critical logistical and theological component of God's plan for preservation through Noah.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** This primitive root (H3947) signifies to "take" in a very broad sense, encompassing actions like accepting, bringing, fetching, seizing, and receiving. In this context, it implies an active, intentional acquisition on Noah's part. It's not a passive reception but a deliberate act of collecting and securing. The breadth of this verb suggests the comprehensive nature of the task: Noah was to *acquire* all necessary provisions by whatever means appropriate.
* **food (Hebrew, _maʼăkâl'_):** Derived from the root for "to eat," this noun (H3978) refers to anything eatable, including provender, flesh, and fruit. Its use here emphasizes the diverse dietary needs of the Ark's inhabitants. It's a general term, indicating that Noah was not to be selective based on human preferences but was to consider the sustenance requirements of *all* creatures, from the smallest to the largest, ensuring a balanced and sufficient diet for each.
* **gather (Hebrew, _ʼâçaph'_):** This primitive root (H622) means "to gather for any purpose," also implying to receive, take away, or put up. It speaks to the act of collecting, assembling, and storing. This word highlights the active, laborious nature of Noah's task. He was to systematically bring together and consolidate the vast quantities of food, implying organization, foresight, and sustained effort in preparation for the long period of confinement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten":** This initial clause is a direct divine command, emphasizing the comprehensive scope of Noah's responsibility. "All food that is eaten" (כָּל־מַאֲכָל אֲשֶׁר יֵאָכֵל, _kol-ma’ăkal ’ăsher ye’akhel_) signifies every conceivable type of edible substance suitable for the diverse array of creatures and humans on the Ark. This was not a partial or selective gathering but a thorough collection, requiring immense planning, knowledge of various diets, and a monumental effort to procure. It reflects God's meticulous attention to detail and His expectation of Noah's complete compliance.
* **"and thou shalt gather [it] to thee":** This phrase reinforces Noah's active and personal involvement in the process. The repetition of the idea of "taking" and "gathering" underscores the diligence and labor required. Noah was not merely to identify the food but to physically collect, transport, and store it within the Ark. This highlights Noah's role as God's chosen agent, demonstrating his unwavering obedience and trust in the divine directive, even when faced with an unprecedented and arduous task. It speaks to the practical, hands-on nature of his faith.
* **"and it shall be for food for thee, and for them":** This final clause clarifies the dual purpose of the gathered provisions. The food was intended for the sustenance of Noah and his family ("thee") and equally for "them"—all the animals within the Ark. This demonstrates God's holistic care, extending His provision to every living creature He purposed to preserve. The repetition of "food" (אֹכְלָה, _’okhlah_, a feminine form of 'food') further emphasizes the critical importance of this life-sustaining resource for all on board, ensuring the continuity of life for both humanity and the animal kingdom through the flood.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Divine Command** as a central literary device, structuring the narrative around God's direct, imperative instructions to Noah. This highlights God's sovereignty and active involvement in the unfolding events, emphasizing His control over creation and judgment. The comprehensive nature of the command, "all food that is eaten," utilizes **Hyperbole** or **Totalization** to convey the absolute and exhaustive extent of the provisioning task, underscoring the thoroughness required. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the concept of "food" (using different Hebrew terms: _maʼăkâl_ and _’okhlah_) serves to emphasize the critical importance of sustenance for the survival of all life on the Ark, reinforcing the meticulousness of God's plan and Noah's task.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 6:21 stands as a profound testament to God's comprehensive sovereignty and His meticulous care for all creation, even in the midst of judgment. It reveals a God who not only commands but also provides for the means of survival, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant purposes. Noah's obedience in this monumental task exemplifies the human responsibility to partner with God in stewardship and preparation, trusting implicitly in His divine wisdom. This divine-human partnership ensures the preservation of life and the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

* [Matthew 6:26](/matthew/6-26 "God Cares for the Birds")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "God Will Supply All Your Needs")
* [Psalm 145:15-16](/psalms/145-15-16 "God Provides Food for All Living Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 6:21 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us of God's unfailing provision and meticulous care, even amidst the most daunting circumstances. Just as God meticulously planned for the sustenance of Noah and all life on the Ark, we are called to trust in His comprehensive provision for our lives, both physically and spiritually. Noah's diligent obedience in gathering provisions encourages us to be wise and responsible stewards of the resources God entrusts to us, to plan with foresight, and to actively prepare for the future, both practically and spiritually. This verse challenges us to embrace proactive faith, to obey God's instructions implicitly, even when the path seems arduous or unconventional, knowing that His commands are always for our ultimate good and the fulfillment of His divine purposes. It invites us to consider how our daily diligence and preparation reflect our trust in God's overarching plan for our lives and the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to exercise greater diligence and foresight, trusting God's provision as you prepare?**
* **How does Noah's active obedience in gathering food challenge any tendency to passively wait for God's miraculous intervention without personal effort?**
* **What does God's meticulous care for all creatures in this verse teach us about His character and our responsibility towards creation?**
* **How can the principle of comprehensive provision in Genesis 6:21 encourage you to trust God more fully with your future needs?**

### FAQ
**Why did God command Noah to gather food, rather than providing it miraculously on the Ark?**

Answer: While God certainly possesses the omnipotent power to provide miraculously, as seen in other biblical accounts like the manna in the wilderness ([Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "God Provides Manna and Quail")), His command to Noah in [Genesis 6:21](/genesis/6-21 "God's Command to Noah to Gather Food") emphasizes crucial principles of human responsibility, diligent stewardship, and active partnership in His divine plan. This approach teaches us about foresight, the value of labor, and the cultivation of faith through obedience. God often chooses to work through human effort and preparation, even when His ultimate provision is sovereign. This not only ensures the practical outcome but also develops character, fosters diligence, and deepens reliance on God's specific instructions. It demonstrates that faith is not passive but an active response to divine command, preparing for what God has promised.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The comprehensive provision and meticulous preservation seen in [Genesis 6:21](/genesis/6-21 "God's Command to Noah to Gather Food") powerfully foreshadow the ultimate provision found in Jesus Christ. Just as the Ark provided physical sustenance and salvation from the judgment of the flood, Christ is the ultimate "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus Declares Himself the Bread of Life")) who provides spiritual sustenance and eternal salvation from the judgment of sin. Noah's diligent obedience in gathering food for the preservation of life points to Christ's perfect obedience in fulfilling the Father's will, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience to Death")), thereby securing eternal life for all who trust in Him. Through Christ, God provides not just for temporary physical needs, but for the eternal spiritual nourishment and preservation of His people, sustaining them by His very presence and word ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "The Spirit Gives Life")). He is the one who "upholds the universe by the word of his power" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Christ Upholds the Universe")), demonstrating a far greater and more enduring provision than any physical food.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 1:29

¶ And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.

Genesis 1:30

And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein [there is] life, [I have given] every green herb for meat: and it was so.

Psalms 145:16

Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.

Psalms 136:25

Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

Psalms 104:27

These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give [them] their meat in due season.

Psalms 104:28

[That] thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.

Psalms 35:6

Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them.