Genesis 7:2

Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that [are] not clean by two, the male and his female.

Of every clean {H2889} beast {H929} thou shalt take {H3947} to thee by sevens {H7651}{H7651}, the male {H376} and his female {H802}: and of beasts {H929} that are not clean {H2889}{H1931} by two {H8147}, the male {H376} and his female {H802}.

Of every clean animal you are to take seven couples, and of the animals that are not clean, one couple;

You are to take with you seven pairs of every kind of clean animal, a male and its mate; a pair of every kind of unclean animal, a male and its mate;

Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee seven and seven, the male and his female; and of the beasts that are not clean two, the male and his female:

Commentary

Context of Genesis 7:2

Genesis 7:2 is part of God's detailed instructions to Noah concerning the preparations for the global Flood. Following the command for Noah to enter the ark with his household (Genesis 7:1), this verse specifies the exact number of animals Noah was to bring onto the ark. It clarifies and expands upon God's initial instruction in Genesis 6:19-20, introducing a crucial distinction between "clean" and "unclean" beasts. This distinction was vital for the preservation of all animal kinds and for the religious practices that would follow the Flood.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Meticulousness and Provision: This verse highlights God's incredible attention to detail in His plan for preservation. He doesn't just command Noah to save animals; He specifies the exact numbers and categories, ensuring both the survival of species and the availability of animals for worship after the Flood.
  • The Distinction of Clean and Unclean: Even before the Mosaic Law (which codified these distinctions in books like Leviticus 11), there was a concept of "clean" and "unclean" animals. The "clean" animals were typically those suitable for sacrifice and consumption, while "unclean" were not. Bringing seven pairs of clean animals versus two of unclean ensured a sufficient population for post-Flood reproduction and for Noah's subsequent act of worship (Genesis 8:20).
  • Obedience to God's Specific Commands: Noah's faithfulness is underscored by his adherence to these precise, and perhaps seemingly complex, instructions. His complete obedience was critical to the fulfillment of God's plan.
  • Preservation of Life: The primary purpose of these instructions was to safeguard the diversity of life on Earth. God, as the Creator, demonstrated His care for all His creation, ensuring that the animal kingdom would continue after the judgment of the Flood.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms for "clean" (ṭāhôr) and "not clean" (often implied by "unclean" or ṭāmēʾ, though not explicitly used here) refer to ritual purity rather than just physical cleanliness. The number "seven" (Hebrew: sheva') frequently signifies completeness, perfection, or divine fullness in biblical numerology. Here, it suggests that the clean animals were set apart for a more significant purpose than just mere survival, likely for sacrifice and to ensure a robust population for repopulation. The number "two" (Hebrew: shenayim) simply indicates a pair for reproduction.

Practical Application

Genesis 7:2 reminds us of God's incredible foresight and meticulous planning, even in times of judgment. It teaches us the importance of paying attention to God's specific instructions, even when they seem unusual or demanding. Noah's obedience in collecting these animals, which was no small feat, serves as an enduring example of faith and trust in God's word. Furthermore, it highlights God's care for all creation and His desire to preserve life, offering a glimpse into His broader redemptive plan for humanity and the world. For believers today, it underscores that God has a purpose for everything, and He equips His people to fulfill His will.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 10:10 (5 votes)

    And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean;

  • Genesis 8:20 (5 votes)

    ¶ And Noah builded an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar.

  • Leviticus 11:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying unto them,

  • Leviticus 11:47 (5 votes)

    To make a difference between the unclean and the clean, and between the beast that may be eaten and the beast that may not be eaten.

  • Genesis 7:8 (4 votes)

    Of clean beasts, and of beasts that [are] not clean, and of fowls, and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth,

  • Genesis 6:19 (2 votes)

    And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every [sort] shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep [them] alive with thee; they shall be male and female.

  • Genesis 6:21 (2 votes)

    And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather [it] to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.