Genesis 8:11

And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth [was] an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

And the dove {H3123} came in {H935} to him in the evening {H6256}{H6153}; and, lo, in her mouth {H6310} was an olive {H2132} leaf {H5929} pluckt off {H2965}: so Noah {H5146} knew {H3045} that the waters {H4325} were abated {H7043} from off the earth {H776}.

The dove came in to him in the evening, and there in her mouth was a freshly plucked olive leaf, so Noach knew that the water had cleared from the earth.

And behold, the dove returned to him in the evening with a freshly plucked olive leaf in her beak. So Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth.

and the dove came in to him at eventide; and, lo, in her mouth an olive-leaf plucked off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

Commentary

Context

Genesis 8:11 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of Noah's Ark and the Great Flood. Following the devastating global flood, Noah had released a raven, which did not return, and then a dove, which returned without finding a resting place (Genesis 8:9). This verse describes the second release of the dove, seven days after the first. Noah and his family had been confined within the ark for over a year, waiting patiently for the waters to recede and the earth to become habitable again. Their long confinement and the vast desolation outside would have created an immense longing for a sign of new life.

Key Themes

  • Hope and Renewal: The olive leaf is a powerful symbol of life returning. After months of watery desolation, this fresh leaf signifies that vegetation was beginning to grow again, offering a tangible promise of the earth's recovery and the possibility of a new beginning for humanity.
  • Divine Providence and Patience: Noah's repeated sending of the dove demonstrates his faith and patience, trusting in God's timing for the earth to dry. The olive leaf's appearance confirms God's providential care in restoring the world.
  • A Sign of Abatement: The "pluckt off" olive leaf was definitive proof that the waters had significantly receded, exposing dry land and allowing plants to flourish. It was Noah's clear signal to prepare for disembarkation.
  • Symbolism of the Dove and Olive: The dove, often associated with peace and, later, the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:16), brings a message of peace and reconciliation between God and the earth. The olive branch itself has become a universal emblem of peace and reconciliation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "pluckt off" (KJV) emphasizes that the leaf was fresh and vibrant, not a dead, floating piece of debris. It indicates new growth and vitality. The Hebrew word for "leaf" (ืขึธืœึถื”, 'aleh) refers to a fresh, living leaf. The olive tree (ื–ึทื™ึดืช, zayit) is known for its hardiness and longevity, often being among the first trees to sprout after devastation, making its leaf a fitting herald of renewed life.

Practical Application

Genesis 8:11 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us that even after periods of great trial, devastation, or waiting, God is at work bringing about renewal. Just as Noah looked for a sign, we too are called to look for God's signs of hope and new beginnings in our lives, trusting His perfect timing. The olive leaf encourages us to persevere through hardship, knowing that God's plan includes restoration and peace. It's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, small signs can point to a greater promise of God's unfailing mercy and new mercies.

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Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 8:15 (3 votes)

    And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as [it is] written.

  • Zechariah 4:12 (1 votes)

    And I answered again, and said unto him, What [be these] two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden [oil] out of themselves?

  • Zechariah 4:14 (1 votes)

    Then said he, These [are] the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.

  • Romans 10:15 (1 votes)

    And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!