Genesis 9:23

KJV

And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid [it] upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces [were] backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Shem {H8035} and Japheth {H3315} took {H3947} a garment {H8071}, and laid {H7760} it upon both {H8147} their shoulders {H7926}, and went {H3212} backward {H322}, and covered {H3680} the nakedness {H6172} of their father {H1}; and their faces {H6440} were backward {H322}, and they saw {H7200} not their father's {H1} nakedness {H6172}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Shem and Yefet took a cloak, put it over both their shoulders, and, walking backward, went in and covered their naked father. Their faces were turned away, so that they did not see their father lying there shamefully exposed.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Shem and Japheth took a garment and placed it across their shoulders, and walking backward, they covered their father’s nakedness. Their faces were turned away so that they did not see their father’s nakedness.

American Standard Version

And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid it upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces were backward, and they saw not their father’s nakedness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 9:23 meticulously recounts the honorable and respectful actions of Noah's sons, Shem and Japheth, who, upon learning of their father's intoxicated nakedness, took a garment, approached him backward, and covered him without gazing upon his shame. This deliberate act of filial piety stands in stark contrast to their brother Ham's disrespectful behavior, highlighting profound themes of modesty, the covering of vulnerability, and the preservation of dignity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment within the post-Flood narrative, immediately following God's covenant with Noah and the establishment of the new world order. After disembarking from the ark, Noah, now a farmer, cultivates a vineyard. The preceding verse, [Genesis 9:22](/genesis/9-22 "Ham discovers Noah's nakedness"), describes Ham's discovery of his father's drunken nakedness and his subsequent reporting of it to his brothers outside the tent. Genesis 9:23 then details the contrasting, respectful response of Shem and Japheth. This narrative sets the stage for Noah's subsequent pronouncements of blessing and curse in [Genesis 9:25-27](/genesis/9-25-27 "Noah's curse on Canaan and blessings on Shem and Japheth"), which profoundly impact the destiny of their descendants and the early history of nations. The entire episode serves as a moral lesson on familial duty and the consequences of one's actions.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, nakedness, especially of a patriarch or elder, was considered a profound source of shame and dishonor. To gaze upon it, let alone expose it or mock it, was an act of extreme disrespect, often carrying connotations of sexual impropriety or a curse. The tent, in this nomadic or semi-nomadic setting, served as a private dwelling, and its interior represented a sacred space of family intimacy. Noah, as the patriarch and the new progenitor of humanity, held immense authority and dignity. His state of intoxication and nakedness, while a personal failing, did not negate his inherent status. The actions of Shem and Japheth reflect a deep understanding of cultural norms regarding honor, shame, and filial duty, emphasizing the importance of protecting the dignity of one's elders, even when they are vulnerable.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 9:23 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis and beyond. It highlights the theme of **filial piety** and the **honor due to parents**, even in their weakness, contrasting it with **disrespect and mockery**. This narrative also introduces the crucial concept of **covering shame** versus **exposing it**, a principle that resonates throughout biblical ethics, foreshadowing the divine covering of sin. Furthermore, it underscores the **consequences of moral choices**, as the distinct actions of Noah's sons directly lead to differing destinies for their lineages, illustrating the principle of **blessing and curse** that recurs throughout the patriarchal narratives, from [Abraham's call](/genesis/12-1-3 "God's call to Abram") to the blessings and curses of the Mosaic covenant in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Blessings and Curses"). The narrative implicitly touches upon the **dignity of humanity**, even in compromised states, and the responsibility to uphold it.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **took (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** H3947. This primitive root means "to take (in the widest variety of applications)." In this context, it implies a deliberate and intentional action. Shem and Japheth did not stumble upon the garment; they "took" it, suggesting a purposeful act of acquiring it with the intent to cover their father. This highlights their proactive and thoughtful response, rather than a passive or accidental one.
* **backward (Hebrew, _ʼăchôrannîyth'_):** H322. Prolonged from אָחוֹר (achor), meaning "back, hind part." This adverb emphasizes the precise manner of their approach: they literally walked backward. This detail is crucial, signifying their conscious effort to avoid seeing their father's nakedness. It's an act of profound respect and self-control, demonstrating their commitment to preserving Noah's dignity and their own purity by averting their gaze from a shameful sight.
* **nakedness (Hebrew, _ʻervâh'_):** H6172. Derived from ʻârâh (to lay bare), this term signifies "nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)." In this context, it refers not merely to physical nudity but carries strong connotations of shame, disgrace, and vulnerability. Shem and Japheth were covering not just a body, but their father's "shame" or "dishonor," performing an act of grace and protection that went beyond the physical.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid [it] upon both their shoulders,"**: This clause emphasizes the collaborative and intentional nature of their act. The garment was not casually thrown; it was taken and carefully borne by both brothers, signifying a shared commitment and a joint effort to honor their father. The act of laying it upon "both their shoulders" conveys a sense of solemnity and shared responsibility in carrying out this act of covering.
* **"and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father;"**: This part of the verse reveals the extraordinary measure of respect and sensitivity displayed. Their decision to walk backward into the tent was a deliberate strategy to avoid seeing their father's vulnerable and shameful state. The act of "covered" (Hebrew: *kâçâh*, H3680) implies not just a physical covering but an act of concealment and protection, shielding their father from further dishonor and upholding his dignity.
* **"and their faces [were] backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness."**: This final clause explicitly reinforces the brothers' unwavering commitment to modesty and honor. The repetition of "backward" and the explicit statement that they "saw not" their father's nakedness underscore their active refusal to exploit or even witness his compromised state. This detail highlights their moral integrity and their determination to preserve Noah's dignity by avoiding any participation in the shame associated with his exposure.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of Genesis 9:23 employs several potent literary devices. **Contrast** is paramount, as the actions of Shem and Japheth are set in stark opposition to Ham's disrespectful behavior in the preceding verse, highlighting the moral choice between honoring and shaming. **Repetition** of the word "backward" (Hebrew: *ʼăchôrannîyth*) and "nakedness" (Hebrew: *ʻervâh*) serves to emphasize the deliberate nature of the brothers' actions and the gravity of the situation. The garment itself functions as **symbolism**, representing not just a physical covering but an act of grace, protection, and the restoration of dignity. The entire episode serves as a **type** or **foreshadowing** of later biblical principles regarding modesty, the covering of sin, and the importance of discretion in dealing with others' weaknesses.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The actions of Shem and Japheth in Genesis 9:23 provide a foundational biblical example of filial piety and the virtue of covering shame. Their deliberate choice to honor their father, even in his vulnerable and undignified state, establishes a profound ethical precedent. Theologically, this narrative underscores the importance of discretion, compassion, and the preservation of dignity within human relationships, particularly within the family. It teaches that true love and respect seek to conceal weakness and restore honor, rather than expose or exploit it. This principle resonates deeply with the divine character, where God, in His grace, provides covering for human sin and shame.

* [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "The Fifth Commandment: Honor Your Parents")
* [Proverbs 10:12](/proverbs/10-12 "Love Covers All Offenses")
* [1 Peter 4:8](/1_peter/4-8 "Love Covers a Multitude of Sins")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 9:23 offers timeless and challenging lessons for believers on how to respond to the weaknesses, failures, and vulnerabilities of others, especially those in positions of authority or trust. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of honor, grace, and discretion, choosing intentionally to cover rather than expose the shame of others. This requires a profound level of self-control and humility, as demonstrated by Shem and Japheth's deliberate actions of going backward and refusing to look. In a world often quick to criticize, gossip, and revel in the downfall of others, this passage serves as a powerful counter-cultural mandate. It urges us to act with compassion, seeking to restore dignity and protect reputation, understanding that our actions have spiritual and relational consequences, just as Shem and Japheth's actions ultimately led to [blessing for their descendants](/genesis/9-26 "Noah's blessing on Shem"). Our response to others' failings should mirror God's grace towards us, seeking to uplift and cover, rather than condemn and expose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways am I tempted to expose or magnify the weaknesses or failures of others, rather than cover them with grace?**
* **How can I cultivate a more intentional spirit of honor and discretion in my relationships, particularly with family members or those in authority?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "go backward" and avoid gazing upon the "nakedness" or shame of others in my community or public life?**

### FAQ
**Why did Shem and Japheth go backward into the tent?**

Answer: Shem and Japheth went backward into the tent as a deliberate and profound act of modesty and respect. By doing so, they ensured they would not gaze upon their father's nakedness, thereby actively avoiding participation in or witnessing his shame. This action preserved Noah's dignity and demonstrated their own purity and reverence in the face of his vulnerability. It was a conscious choice to honor their father's privacy and reputation, even in his compromised state.

**What is the significance of "nakedness" in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "nakedness" here, *‘ervâh* (H6172), signifies more than mere physical nudity. It carries strong connotations of shame, disgrace, or vulnerability, particularly within a familial or societal context. Therefore, Shem and Japheth were not simply covering a body; they were actively covering their father's dishonor and protecting his reputation. This concept of "nakedness" as shame is prevalent throughout the Old Testament, often associated with exposure, humiliation, or moral transgression, as seen in passages like [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Forbidden Sexual Relations").

**How does this story relate to honoring parents today?**

Answer: This story provides a timeless lesson on honoring parents, even when they are flawed, make mistakes, or are in a vulnerable state. It teaches that true honor involves protecting their dignity and reputation, choosing to cover their weaknesses with grace and discretion rather than exposing, mocking, or gossiping about them. It reflects the biblical principle of unconditional honor, which is a cornerstone of the [Fifth Commandment](/exodus/20-12 "The Fifth Commandment"). By covering Noah's shame, Shem and Japheth exemplified a profound respect that transcends circumstances, calling us to extend similar grace to those we are called to honor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Shem and Japheth physically covered their earthly father's nakedness and shame, their act powerfully foreshadows the ultimate covering provided by Jesus Christ. Humanity's spiritual nakedness is our sin, rebellion against God, and inherent fallenness, which brings profound shame, guilt, and separation from a holy God. Just as Shem and Japheth acted out of love and respect to cover Noah's physical dishonor, Christ, out of perfect love and obedience to the Father, bore our spiritual shame and covered our sin through His sacrificial death on the cross. He is the one who truly "went backward" from the world's ways, humbling Himself to the point of death, even death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Humility")). Through His shed blood, He provides a complete and eternal covering for our spiritual nakedness, clothing us in His own righteousness ([Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Garments of Salvation and Robe of Righteousness")). By faith in Him, we are no longer exposed in our shame but are presented blameless before God, covered by the perfect garment of His atoning work ([Colossians 1:22](/colossians/1-22 "Reconciled in Christ's Body")).

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

Galatians 6:1

¶ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Exodus 20:12

¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

1 Timothy 5:1

¶ Rebuke not an elder, but intreat [him] as a father; [and] the younger men as brethren;

1 Peter 2:17

Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

1 Peter 4:8

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

1 Timothy 5:17

¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

1 Timothy 5:19

Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.