Genesis 8:7

And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

And he sent forth {H7971} a raven {H6158}, which went forth {H3318} to {H3318} and fro {H7725}, until the waters {H4325} were dried up {H3001} from off the earth {H776}.

and he sent out a raven, which flew back and forth until the water had dried up from the earth.

and sent out a raven. It kept flying back and forth until the waters had dried up from the earth.

and he sent forth a raven, and it went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

Commentary

Genesis 8:7 recounts a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative of the Great Flood, illustrating Noah's cautious steps to ascertain the state of the earth after months confined within the ark.

Context

Following the cataclysmic flood that covered the entire earth, the waters had prevailed for 150 days. Then, God "remembered Noah" and began to cause the waters to recede. After the ark rested upon the mountains of Ararat and the tops of the mountains became visible, Noah, eager to know when it was safe to leave, began a series of tests. The sending of the raven is his first attempt to gauge the drying process, reflecting his patient and methodical approach to exiting the ark.

Key Themes

  • Patience and Prudence: Noah's action demonstrates a wise and patient approach to a critical situation. He didn't immediately open the ark and disembark but sought confirmation that the land was truly dry and habitable. This highlights the importance of discernment and waiting for the right time, rather than acting impulsively.
  • The Raven's Role as a Scout: The raven, an unclean bird according to Mosaic Law (though not yet established), was likely chosen for its ability to survive on carrion or floating debris. Its behavior—"went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up"—suggests it found places to land and sustenance outside the ark, indicating that some land was exposed, but it did not return, failing to provide a clear sign of widespread dry ground suitable for human habitation. This contrasts sharply with the subsequent missions of the dove, as seen in Genesis 8:8 and Genesis 8:11.
  • Awaiting God's Timing: While Noah initiated the sending of the birds, the ultimate signal for leaving the ark came directly from God (see Genesis 8:15), underscoring the theme of divine sovereignty over human initiative.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase "to and fro" (הָלוֹךְ וָשׁוֹב, halokh vashov) vividly describes the raven's continuous movement without returning to the ark. Unlike the dove that would be sent later, which returned because it found no resting place, the raven, being a scavenger, likely found sufficient places to alight and food among the remnants of the flood, thus having no compelling reason to return to Noah. This subtle detail distinguishes its mission from that of the dove.

Practical Application

Genesis 8:7 offers valuable lessons for believers today. It teaches us the importance of patience and discernment when navigating uncertain times. Like Noah, we are called to seek clear signs and guidance, whether through prayer, Scripture, or wise counsel, before making significant moves or decisions. It also reminds us that even when we take initiative, our ultimate trust must remain in God's perfect timing and leading, understanding that He is always at work, even when the signs are not immediately clear.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 17:6 (2 votes)

    And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook.

  • 1 Kings 17:4 (2 votes)

    And it shall be, [that] thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.

  • Leviticus 11:15 (2 votes)

    Every raven after his kind;

  • Job 38:41 (2 votes)

    Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat.

  • Psalms 147:9 (2 votes)

    He giveth to the beast his food, [and] to the young ravens which cry.