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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 9:12–17.
Articles of agreement among men are usually sealed, that the covenants may be the more solemn, and the performances of the covenants the more sure, to mutual satisfaction. God therefore, being willing more abundantly to show to the heirs of promise the immutability of his councils, has confirmed his covenant by a seal (Heb 6:17), which makes the foundations we build on stand sure, Ti2 2:19. The seal of this covenant of nature was natural enough; it was the rainbow, which, it is likely, was seen in the clouds before, when second causes concurred, but was never a seal of the covenant till now that it was made so by a divine institution. Now, concerning this seal of the covenant, observe, 1. This seal is affixed with repeated assurances of the truth of that promise of which it was designed to be the ratification: I do set my bow in the cloud (Gen 9:23); it shall be seen in the cloud (Gen 9:14), that the eye may affect the heart and confirm the faith; and it shall be the token of the covenant (Gen 9:12, Gen 9:13), and I will remember my covenant, that the waters shall no more become a flood, Gen 9:15. Nay, as if the Eternal Mind needed a memorandum, I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant, Gen 9:16. Thus here is line upon line, that we might have sure and strong consolation who have laid hold of this hope. 2. The rainbow appears when the clouds are most disposed to wet, and returns after the rain; when we have most reason to fear the rain prevailing, then God shows this seal of the promise that it shall not prevail. Thus God obviates our fears with such encouragements as are both suitable and seasonable. 3. The thicker the cloud the brighter the bow in the cloud. Thus, as threatening afflictions abound, encouraging consolations much more abound, Co2 1:5. 4. The rainbow appears when one part of the sky is clear, which intimates mercy remembered in the midst of wrath; and the clouds are hemmed as it were with the rainbow, that they may not overspread the heavens, for the bow is coloured rain or the edges of a cloud gilded. 5. The rainbow is the reflection of the beams of the sun, which intimates that all the glory and significancy of the seals of the covenant are derived from Christ the Sun of righteousness, who is also described with a rainbow about his throne (Rev 4:3), and a rainbow upon his head (Rev 10:1), which intimates, not only his majesty, but his mediatorship. 6. The rainbow has fiery colours in it, to signify that though God will not again drown the world, yet, when the mystery of God shall be finished, the world shall be consumed by fire. 7. A bow bespeaks terror, but this bow has neither string nor arrow, as the bow ordained against the persecutors has (Psa 7:12, Psa 7:13), and a bow alone will do little execution. It is a bow, but it is directed upwards, not towards the earth; for the seals of the covenant were intended to comfort, not to terrify. 8. As God looks upon the bow, that he may remember the covenant, so should we, that we also may be ever mindful of the covenant, with faith and thankfulness.
Historical interpretation
Four Centuries of Reception
2 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.
After these things God made a covenant with Noah and with all those who came out of the ark with him, saying, “All flesh shall never again perish in the waters of a flood. I will set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the eternal covenant between God and all flesh that is on the earth.”
I will place my bow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth; and when I cover the sky with clouds, my bow will appear, and I will remember my covenant with you and with every living soul that is alive in the flesh, and the waters will no longer become a flood to destroy all flesh. The bow in the sky, whenever it is seen even today, reminds us of the divine covenant that the earth will no longer be lost in a flood; but if it is well considered, it also shows us a sign of future judgment that will come upon the world by fire. For indeed, it shines with both blue and red color not without reason, except because the blue color testifies about the waters that have passed, and the red color testifies about the flames that are to come. Fittingly, the celestial bow, which they call Iris, is placed as a sign of divine propitiation; for that bow tends to shine in the clouds, and responds in a somewhat grateful confession to the rays of the sun that illuminate the dewy darkness. Therefore, Christ is the Sun of righteousness, the clouds illuminated by Him are the saints, whose names are written in heaven, and the Psalmist speaks of them: Lord, your mercy is in heaven, and your truth reaches to the clouds (Psalm 35:6). And when the bow appears in the clouds, the Lord remembers His promise not to destroy the earth with a flood, because through the intercessions of the saints, who know how to shine not by themselves, but through Him, He is propitiated towards the faithful when they lift up the eyes of their minds to desire heavenly things, and they recognize His glory in the deeds and words or even the rest of the preceding just ones, as if in His clouds, there will be a bow in the clouds, and I will see it and remember the eternal covenant that was made between God and every living soul of all flesh that is upon the earth. It is said in a human manner that God remembers His covenant when He sees the bow in the clouds, which by the merits of the saints, glorified and heavenly through His illumination, He spares and has mercy on our frailty; but He does not newly remember anything since He can never forget anything. He has been mindful of His covenant forever, but He seems to remember the covenant He made with us when He extends the help of His protection to those in tribulation; hence, it is well said in the psalm from the persona of some afflicted individuals, to whom divine aid seemed delayed: Why do you turn your face away, do you forget our poverty and our tribulation (Psalm 43:24)?
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Summary
Genesis 9:14 articulates a pivotal moment in the post-diluvian narrative, establishing the enduring sign of God's covenant with Noah and all living creatures. This verse declares that whenever clouds appear over the earth, the rainbow will be made visible within them, serving as a perpetual, divine reminder of God's solemn pledge never again to destroy all life on earth by a global flood, thereby underscoring His unwavering faithfulness and commitment to the preservation of creation.
Context
Literary Context
Genesis 9:14 is situated within the broader narrative of the Noahic Covenant, which immediately follows the Great Flood. The preceding verses, particularly Genesis 9:8-11, detail God's explicit establishment of this covenant, promising that "never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth." Verse 13 introduces the rainbow as the specific "sign of the covenant," and verse 14 elaborates on the condition for its appearance, linking the natural phenomenon of clouds to the divine display of the bow. This verse, along with the subsequent verses (e.g., Genesis 9:15-16), reinforces the perpetual nature of this divine promise, emphasizing God's active role in its remembrance and display.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, floods were a common and often devastating natural occurrence, and many cultures had their own flood narratives. The Genesis account, however, distinguishes itself by emphasizing God's unique sovereignty over creation and His moral judgment. Covenants were a well-understood concept, often involving a suzerain (a powerful king) making an agreement with a vassal (a lesser party), with specific terms, blessings, curses, and a sign. The Noahic Covenant, however, is unique in its unilateral nature—God initiates and guarantees it—and its universal scope, extending to "all flesh" and the entire earth. The choice of a natural phenomenon like the rainbow as a sign would have been culturally resonant, transforming an often-feared meteorological event (rain-bearing clouds) into a symbol of divine peace and stability, contrasting sharply with the destructive power of the recent flood.
Key Themes
Genesis 9:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates Divine Faithfulness and Covenant Theology, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to His promises, even in the face of human sin. The covenant's universal scope highlights God's Sovereignty Over Creation and His providential care for all living things, ensuring the stability of the natural order (Genesis 8:22). Furthermore, the transformation of the "bow" from a weapon of judgment into a sign of peace introduces the theme of Grace and Mercy, foreshadowing God's redemptive plan. The emphasis on God "seeing" and "remembering" the covenant (as further expounded in Genesis 9:15-16) also underscores the theme of Divine Remembrance, an anthropomorphic expression of God's continuous and active commitment to His word.
Exposition and Analysis
Genesis 9:14 declares, "And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud:" This verse is a direct, declarative statement from God, emphasizing His active agency in both the natural phenomenon and its symbolic significance.
Key Word Analysis
Derived from a root meaning "to cover," this word refers to a cloud as a covering over the sky, specifically a nimbus or thunder-cloud. In the context of the flood, clouds were associated with the destructive waters. Here, God reclaims and redefines the cloud's meaning, transforming it from a potential harbinger of judgment into the very canvas upon which His sign of peace is displayed. The presence of the cloud is the necessary condition for the rainbow's appearance, linking the potential for rain to the certainty of God's promise.
This word is profoundly significant. While it refers to the "iris" or rainbow, its primary and more common meaning in the Old Testament is a warrior's "bow" used for shooting arrows, symbolizing strength or a weapon of war. By placing His "bow" in the cloud, God symbolically "hangs up" His weapon of judgment (the floodwaters), transforming it into a sign of peace and reconciliation. This transformation underscores God's transition from an act of judgment to a covenant of mercy and preservation, disarming Himself of the weapon of global watery destruction.
This primitive root means "to see," encompassing literal and figurative applications, including perceiving, discerning, and observing. While the rainbow is seen by humanity as a sign of assurance, the subsequent verses (e.g., Genesis 9:16) clarify that the primary "seeing" is by God Himself. This anthropomorphism signifies God's active attention and remembrance of His covenant, ensuring its perpetual fulfillment. It is not that God might forget, but that He actively brings His covenant to mind for its ongoing execution.
Verse Breakdown
"And it shall come to pass,"
This phrase, a common biblical idiom (often hayah), introduces a future event that is certain and divinely ordained. It emphasizes the inevitability and reliability of God's declaration, signaling a divine decree that will unfailingly occur.
"when I bring a cloud over the earth,"
This clause establishes the condition for the covenant sign's appearance. It highlights God's active sovereignty over natural phenomena. The "cloud" is not just a meteorological event but an instrument in God's hand, deliberately brought forth by Him to set the stage for His sign. It implies that even in the presence of elements that once brought judgment, God's new purpose will be revealed.
"that the bow shall be seen in the cloud:"
This is the core declaration of the verse. The "bow" (rainbow) is the designated sign, and its visibility "in the cloud" reinforces its connection to the very elements that could, but now will not, bring global destruction. The passive voice "shall be seen" implies a divine unveiling, a regular and observable manifestation of God's enduring promise to all creation.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful Literary Devices. Foremost is Symbolism, where the rainbow serves as a profound symbol. It transforms a natural phenomenon into a divine sign, representing God's covenant of peace and His promise of no more global floods. The double meaning of the Hebrew word for "bow" (qesheth), referring to both a warrior's weapon and the colorful arc, is a masterful use of Wordplay or Pun. This intentional ambiguity highlights God's act of "hanging up" His weapon of judgment, transforming it into a sign of mercy. The phrase "when I bring a cloud" and "the bow shall be seen" also demonstrates Divine Agency, emphasizing God's direct involvement and control over both natural processes and the fulfillment of His covenant. Finally, the broader context of God "seeing" and "remembering" the bow (as elaborated in subsequent verses) employs Anthropomorphism, attributing human characteristics (like remembering) to God to convey His unwavering commitment without implying human limitations.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Genesis 9:14 stands as a foundational text for understanding God's covenantal nature and His unwavering commitment to His creation. It assures humanity of the stability of the natural order and God's faithfulness, transforming a potential harbinger of storm into a beacon of hope. This verse underscores that God's promises are not conditional on human performance but are rooted in His own character and sovereign will, establishing a universal covenant of common grace that benefits all life on earth.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 9:14 offers profound reassurance and a timeless lesson in divine faithfulness. In a world often marked by uncertainty and fear, the rainbow remains a visible, tangible reminder that God is true to His word. Just as He faithfully upholds His covenant with creation, ensuring the stability of seasons and the preservation of life from global deluge, so too can we trust in all His promises, including those of salvation and eternal life found in the new covenant through Jesus Christ. When life's storms gather, whether personal trials or global anxieties, the "bow in the cloud" serves as a spiritual anchor, reminding us that God is sovereign, He remembers His people, and His grace is sufficient. It calls us to live with hope, knowing that God's providential care extends to every aspect of our existence, inviting us to respond with trust and worship.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does God "remember" the covenant because He might otherwise forget?
No, the concept of God "remembering" in the biblical sense (e.g., Genesis 8:1) is an anthropomorphism, meaning it describes God using human terms to help us understand His actions. It does not imply forgetfulness on God's part, as God is omniscient. Instead, when the Bible states God "remembers" His covenant, it signifies His active attention, His renewed focus, and His intention to act decisively on behalf of His covenant promises. It means He is about to fulfill or reaffirm His commitment, bringing His promises to bear in the present reality.
Is the Noahic Covenant only for a specific group of people?
The Noahic Covenant, symbolized by the rainbow in Genesis 9:14, is explicitly stated to be with "all flesh" and "every living creature" (Genesis 9:15). It is a universal covenant, applying to all humanity and the entire natural world, promising the preservation of life from a global flood. It is not limited to any particular nation, religion, or people group, demonstrating God's common grace extended to all creation.
Why did God choose a rainbow as the sign of His covenant?
The choice of the rainbow is deeply symbolic and profoundly theological. As revealed in the linguistic insight, the Hebrew word for "bow" (qesheth) also commonly refers to a warrior's weapon. By placing His "bow" in the clouds, God symbolically "hangs up" His weapon of judgment (the floodwaters), transforming it into a sign of peace and reconciliation. It's a natural phenomenon that appears after rain, turning a potential sign of impending storm into a beautiful emblem of divine grace, hope, and the cessation of judgment by water. It visually represents God's self-limitation and His promise to sustain life on earth.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While the Noahic Covenant in Genesis 9:14 guarantees the preservation of physical life and the stability of creation, it ultimately serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the greater, eternal covenant established through Jesus Christ. The rainbow signifies God's faithfulness to His promise not to destroy the earth by water; Christ, however, fulfills God's ultimate promise to redeem humanity from the judgment of sin itself. He is the true "bow" of God's peace, not merely averting physical destruction but offering spiritual reconciliation and eternal life. Just as the rainbow appears after the storm, Christ brings ultimate hope and new creation after the judgment of sin. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate sign of God's covenant love and faithfulness, a promise far surpassing the physical preservation of the earth, ensuring the spiritual preservation and eternal salvation of all who believe in Him. Through Christ, we receive not just a promise of physical preservation, but the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, where God's dwelling is with humanity, and sin and death are no more, a fulfillment hinted at by the enduring faithfulness of the Noahic covenant and its sign, the rainbow (Revelation 4:3 and Revelation 10:1).