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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 6:6–7. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. God's resentment of man's wickedness. He did not see it as an unconcerned spectator, but as one injured and affronted by it; he saw it as a tender father sees the folly and stubbornness of a rebellious and disobedient child, which not only angers him, but grieves him, and makes him wish he had been written childless. The expressions here used are very strange: It repented the Lord that he had made man upon the earth, that he had made a creature of such noble powers and faculties, and had put him on this earth, which he built and furnished on purpose to be a convenient, comfortable, habitation for him; and it grieved him at his heart. These are expressions after the manner of men, and must be understood so as not to reflect upon the honour of God's immutability or felicity. 1. This language does not imply any passion or uneasiness in God (nothing can create disturbance to the Eternal Mind), but it expresses his just and holy displeasure against sin and sinners, against sin as odious to his holiness and against sinners as obnoxious to his justice. He is pressed by the sins of his creatures (Amo 2:13), wearied (Isa 43:24), broken (Eze 6:9), grieved (Psa 95:10), and here grieved to the heart, as men are when they are wronged and abused by those they have been very kind to, and therefore repent of their kindness, and wish they had never fostered that snake in their bosom which now hisses in their face and stings them to the heart. Does God thus hate sin? And shall we not hate it? Has our sin grieved him to the heart? And shall we not be grieved and pricked to the heart for it? O that this consideration may humble us and shame us, and that we may look on him whom we have thus grieved, and mourn! Zac 12:10. 2. It does not imply any change of God's mind; for he is in one mind, and who can turn him? With him there is not variableness. But it expressed a change of his way. When God had made man upright, he rested and was refreshed (Exo 31:17), and his way towards him was such as showed he was pleased with the work of his own hands; but, now that man had apostatized, he could not do otherwise than show himself displeased; so that the change was in man, not in God. God repented that he had made man; but we never find him repenting that he redeemed man (though that was a work of much greater expense), because special and effectual grace is given to secure the great ends of redemption; so that those gifts and callings are without repentance, Rom 11:29.
II.God's resolution to destroy man for his wickedness, Gen 6:7. Observe,
1.When God repented that he had made man, he resolved to destroy man. Thus those that truly repent of sin will resolve, in the strength of God's grace, to mortify sin and to destroy it, and so to undo what they have done amiss. We do but mock God in saying that we are sorry for our sin, and that it grieves us to the heart, if we continue to indulge it. In vain do we pretend a change of our mind if we do not evidence it by a change of our way.
2.He resolves to destroy man. The original word is very significant: I will wipe off man from the earth (so some), as dirt or filth is wiped off from a place which should be clean, and is thrown to the dunghill, the proper place for it. See Kg2 21:13. Those that are the spots of the places they live in are justly wiped away by the judgments of God. I will blot out man from the earth (so others), as those lines which displease the author are blotted out a book, or as the name of a citizen is blotted out of the rolls of the freemen, when he is dead or disfranchised.
3.He speaks of man as his own creature even when he resolves upon his ruin: Man whom I have created. "Though I have created him, this shall not excuse him," Isa 27:11. He that made him will not save him; he that is our Creator, if he be not our ruler, will be our destroyer. Or, "Because I have created him, and he has been so undutiful and ungrateful to his Creator, therefore I will destroy him:" those forfeit their lives that do not answer the end of their living.
4.Even the brute-creatures were to be involved in this destruction - Beasts, and creeping things, and the fowls of the air. These were made for man, and therefore must be destroyed with man; for it follows: It repenteth me that I have made them; for the end of their creation also was frustrated. They were made that man might serve and honour God with them; and therefore were destroyed because he had served his lusts with them, and made them subject to vanity.
5.God took up this resolution concerning man after his Spirit had been long striving with him in vain. None are ruined by the justice of God but those that hate to be reformed by the grace of God.
Historical interpretation
Three Centuries of Reception
5 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
And for a very long while wickedness extended and spread, and reached and laid hold upon the whole race of mankind, until a very small seed of righteousness remained among them and illicit unions took place upon the earth, since angels were united with the daughters of the race of mankind; and they bore to them sons who for their exceeding greatness were called giants. And the angels brought as presents to their wives teachings of wickedness, in that they brought them the virtues of roots and herbs, dyeing in colors and cosmetics, the discovery of rare substances, love-potions, aversions, amours, concupiscence, constraints of love, spells of bewitchment, and all sorcery and idolatry hateful to God; by the entry of which things into the world evil extended and spread, while righteousness was diminished and enfeebled. Until judgment came upon the world from God by means of a flood, in the tenth generation from the first-formed (man); Noah alone being found righteous.
Since the Son of God is always one and the same, He gives to those who believe on Him a well of water [springing up] to eternal life, but He causes the unfruitful fig-tree immediately to dry up; and in the days of Noah He justly brought on the deluge for the purpose of extinguishing that most infamous race of men then existent, who could not bring forth fruit to God, since the angels that sinned had commingled with them, and [acted as He did] in order that He might put a check upon the sins of these men, but [that at the same time] He might preserve the archetype, the formation of Adam. And it was He who rained fire and brimstone from heaven, in the days of Lot, upon Sodom and Gomorrah, “an example of the righteous judgment of God,” that all may know, “that every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit shall be cut down, and cast into the fire.”
'I will wipe from the face of the Earth,' He said, 'man, beasts, crawling creatures, and birds of the sky' (Gen. VI, 7). What harm had the irrational creatures done? But because these things had been done for the sake of humanity, once humanity was destroyed, the logical consequence was that these things should also be destroyed, since there was no one to make use of them. However, on a deeper level, this is revealed as the mind of man, which is capable of reason; for man is defined as a living, mortal, rational animal. Therefore, with the principal extinguished, all senses are extinguished as well; because nothing remains for salvation when the foundation of virtue has failed.
God's "anger" implies no perturbation of the divine mind. It is simply the divine judgment passing sentence on sin. And when God "thinks and then has second thoughts," this merely means that changeable realities come into relation with his immutable reason. For God cannot "repent," as human beings repent, of what he has done, since in regard to everything his judgment is as fixed as his foreknowledge is clear. But it is only by the use of such human expressions that Scripture can make its many kinds of readers whom it wants to help to feel, as it were, at home. Only thus can Scripture frighten the proud and arouse the slothful, provoke inquiries and provide food for the convinced. This is possible only when Scripture gets right down to the level of the lowliest readers.
Let us consider how both the solicitude and severity of the Lord are shown equally in all these words. First, he said, “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great.” Second, he said, “He was touched inwardly with sorrow of heart.” Third, “I will destroy man whom I have created.” In the first statement, wherein it is said that God sees all things, his providential care is shown. In the statement that he has sorrow is shown his solicitude amid the dread of his wrath. The statement about his punishment shows his severity as a judge. Holy Scripture says, “God repented that he had made man on earth.” This does not mean that God is affected by emotion or is subject to any passion. Rather, the Divine Word, to impart more fully to us a true understanding of the Scriptures, speaks “as if” in terms of human emotions. By using the term “repentant God,” it shows the force of God’s rejection. God’s anger is simply the punishment of the sinner.
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Summary
Genesis 6:6 profoundly reveals God's deep sorrow and grief over humanity's pervasive wickedness before the Great Flood. This verse highlights the personal impact of sin on the Creator's heart, underscoring that human choices have severe consequences and prompting God's decisive intervention to address the widespread corruption.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is positioned at a critical juncture in the early narrative of Genesis, serving as the climax of the escalating wickedness described in the preceding verses. Genesis 6:1-4 introduces the "sons of God" and "daughters of men," leading to the birth of the Nephilim and a general increase in human depravity. Genesis 6:5 then provides the stark summary of humanity's moral state, declaring that "every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." This pervasive and unceasing evil sets the stage for God's profound emotional response and the subsequent divine judgment of the Flood, which is introduced in Genesis 6:7. The verse immediately following, Genesis 6:7, directly states God's intention to "blot out man whom I have created from the face of the earth," directly linking His grief to His impending judgment.
Historical & Cultural Context
The ancient Near East, where Genesis originated, often depicted deities with human-like emotions and interactions, though the Israelite understanding of Yahweh was distinct in His moral perfection and sovereignty. This period, prior to the Flood, is presented as a time of unchecked human population growth and moral decay, where violence and corruption filled the earth. The narrative suggests a societal breakdown where the very fabric of human relationships and divine-human covenant was severely compromised. While specific cultural norms of the pre-Flood world are not detailed, the text implies a widespread rejection of God's ways, leading to a state that necessitated a radical divine response to preserve creation's integrity and the lineage through which redemption would eventually come.
Key Themes
Genesis 6:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates the gravity of sin and its devastating impact, not only on humanity but also on the heart of God Himself. It highlights the personal nature of God, revealing Him as a relational being who experiences deep emotion and sorrow in response to His creation's choices, rather than a distant, impassive deity. This verse also foreshadows the theme of divine judgment and mercy, as God's grief leads to His decision to cleanse the earth, yet simultaneously prompts His grace in preserving Noah and his family, who found favor in His eyes, as seen in Genesis 6:8. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of human responsibility and the consequences of moral rebellion against a holy God, setting a precedent for future divine interventions in human history.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning properly "to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e. (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself); comfort (self), ease (one's self), repent(-er,-ing, self)." When applied to God, this term does not imply a change in His eternal character or divine purpose, but rather a deep sorrow or regret, leading to a change in His posture or action towards humanity due to their persistent rebellion. It signifies a profound lament over the tragic state of His creation, necessitating a shift in His engagement with humanity.
Referring to "(the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God; Jehovah, the Lord." This is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal, relational, and unchanging nature. The use of YHWH here underscores that it is the sovereign, covenant-keeping God who is deeply affected by humanity's sin, highlighting the relational breach caused by their wickedness.
Meaning "properly, to carve, i.e. fabricate or fashion; hence (in a bad sense) to worry, pain or anger; displease, grieve, hurt, make, be sorry, vex, worship, wrest." This word intensifies the meaning of "repented," emphasizing the deep, personal pain and distress God experienced. It portrays God not as an abstract force, but as one whose heart is broken by the moral corruption of His beloved creation.
Referring to "the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything." In this context, "heart" signifies the very core of God's being, His affections, will, and innermost emotions. The phrase "grieved him at his heart" powerfully conveys the depth and intensity of God's sorrow, indicating that the rampant sin of humanity directly afflicted the very essence of His divine being.
Verse Breakdown
"And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth,"
This clause reveals God's profound sorrow and regret over the state of humanity. The term "repented" (Hebrew: nâcham) does not imply a change in God's perfect knowledge or eternal plan, but rather a deep emotional response to humanity's pervasive wickedness. It signifies a divine lament or a change in God's posture or action towards His creation due to their choices. Having created humanity for fellowship and to reflect His image, God is deeply pained by their complete moral corruption, to the point where He regrets the very act of their creation because of the trajectory they have chosen. This is a divine expression of sorrow over the brokenness of His relationship with humanity.
"and it grieved him at his heart."
This second clause intensifies the first, emphasizing the personal and profound nature of God's sorrow. The word "grieved" (Hebrew: ʻâtsab) conveys deep pain, hurt, or distress. The phrase "at his heart" (Hebrew: lêb) signifies that this grief penetrated to the very core of God's being, His affections, and His will. It portrays God not as a distant, impassive deity, but as one intimately involved with His creation, whose divine heart is broken by the pervasive sin and violence that had filled the earth. This anthropomorphic expression helps human readers grasp the immense emotional cost of sin to the Creator.
Literary Devices
Genesis 6:6 primarily employs Anthropomorphism, attributing human emotions and experiences (repentance, grief, a heart) to God. This literary device is crucial for human comprehension, allowing finite beings to grasp the infinite God's profound emotional response to sin. It makes God relatable and emphasizes His personal involvement with His creation. The verse also utilizes Pathos, appealing directly to the reader's emotions by depicting God's deep sorrow, thereby underscoring the gravity of human sin and its impact on the Creator. The repetition of ideas, first "repented" and then "grieved at his heart," serves as a form of Intensification, building upon the initial expression of regret to convey an even deeper, more personal anguish within the divine being. This dual expression underscores the profound tragedy of humanity's fall in God's eyes.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse powerfully reveals God as a personal Being who experiences profound emotions, including sorrow and grief, in response to human actions. It underscores that sin is not trivial but deeply offends and pains the heart of God, demonstrating its destructive power and the necessity of divine judgment. While the language is anthropomorphic, it conveys a profound theological truth about God's relational nature and His deep love for His creation, a love so profound that its rejection causes Him immense pain. This divine grief leads to a just judgment (the Flood) but also prompts His mercy in preserving Noah and his family, showcasing His balanced attributes of holiness and compassion.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 6:6 serves as a potent reminder that our choices matter deeply to God. It challenges us to take sin seriously, recognizing that our rebellion grieves the very heart of our Creator. This understanding should motivate us to live lives that bring Him joy, reflecting His character and seeking righteousness in a world still prone to wickedness, rather than contributing to the sorrow of His heart. It calls us to consider the profound relational aspect of our faith: our actions do not merely break rules, but they impact the heart of the One who made us and loves us. This should inspire a deeper reverence for God's holiness and a renewed commitment to living in a way that honors His immense love and sacrifice for us.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does 'repented' mean God changed His mind or made a mistake?
No. The Hebrew word nâcham, translated as "repented," indicates God's deep sorrow or regret, leading to a change in His action or posture towards humanity due to their sin, not a change in His eternal character, purpose, or knowledge. Biblical texts like Numbers 23:19 and 1 Samuel 15:29 affirm God's immutability and unchanging nature. God's "repentance" here is an anthropomorphic expression of His profound grief over the moral state of His creation.
Why does God express such human-like emotions like grief?
This is an example of anthropomorphism, where human characteristics and emotions are attributed to God to help us, as finite beings, understand His divine nature and profound involvement with His creation. It emphasizes that God is not a cold, distant, or impassive deity, but a personal Being capable of deep love, sorrow, and relational engagement with humanity. It helps us grasp the depth of His feelings regarding sin and righteousness.
What does this verse tell us about the nature of sin?
It powerfully illustrates that sin is not merely breaking a rule or a minor transgression, but a profound offense that deeply grieves the heart of God. It underscores sin's destructive power and its capacity to cause divine pain, revealing its ultimate seriousness and the immense relational breach it creates between humanity and its Creator.
How does God's grief in this verse relate to His love for humanity?
God's grief is a profound expression of His love. He is heartbroken because His beloved creation, made in His image, has turned away from Him, choosing a path that leads to self-destruction and moral corruption. This sorrow arises from His deep care, His desire for humanity's well-being, and His holy nature which abhors sin. His grief is a testament to the depth of His relational bond with humanity.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
This verse, portraying God's profound grief over human sin, deeply foreshadows the ultimate divine response to humanity's fallen state: the coming of Jesus Christ. The sorrow felt by the Father in Genesis 6:6 finds its ultimate expression and resolution in the person of Jesus, who would Himself weep over the sin and unbelief of Jerusalem, lamenting their rejection of God's ways and the impending judgment upon them, as recorded in Luke 19:41-44. Christ, as God incarnate, fully experienced human emotions, including sorrow and anguish, and bore the full weight of humanity's sin and the divine grief it causes on the cross. His sacrifice was the ultimate act of love to address the very wickedness that grieved God's heart, providing the pathway for reconciliation and redemption. The Father's grief in Genesis 6:6 is ultimately transformed into the glorious plan of salvation through Christ, demonstrating that while sin causes divine sorrow, God's love is so great that He gave His only Son to redeem humanity from its sinful state, as proclaimed in John 3:16. Through Christ, the broken relationship is mended, and God's heart finds joy in the redemption of His people.