Genesis 9:16

And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that [is] upon the earth.

And the bow {H7198} shall be in the cloud {H6051}; and I will look upon it {H7200}, that I may remember {H2142} the everlasting {H5769} covenant {H1285} between {H996} God {H430} and {H996} every living {H2416} creature {H5315} of all flesh {H1320} that is upon the earth {H776}.

The rainbow will be in the cloud; so that when I look at it, I will remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of any kind on the earth.”

And whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of every kind that is on the earth.”

And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.

Commentary

Context

Genesis 9:16 is a pivotal verse in the post-flood narrative, following the devastating global flood that cleansed the earth. After Noah and his family emerge from the ark, God establishes a new covenant with humanity and all living creatures. This verse specifically describes the rainbow as the visible sign of this everlasting covenant God made with Noah and all flesh, promising never again to destroy the earth with a flood.

Key Themes

  • The Rainbow as a Sign: The rainbow is presented not merely as a natural phenomenon but as a divine symbol. It serves as a constant, visible reminder of God's solemn promise. This beautiful arch across the sky signifies a bridge of peace and reconciliation between God and His creation after judgment.
  • The Everlasting Covenant: This is the first major covenant recorded in the Bible, often called the Noahic Covenant. Its "everlasting" nature signifies its permanence and unconditional character. God's promise is binding on Him, irrespective of human behavior, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to the stability of the natural world and the preservation of life.
  • God's Remembrance: The phrase "I will look upon it, that I may remember" is an anthropomorphism, attributing human characteristics to God. It does not imply that God forgets, but rather emphasizes His unfailing faithfulness and His active commitment to uphold His word. The rainbow serves as a visual cue for humanity, assuring us of God's steadfast mercy and the reliability of His divine promises.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "covenant" is berith (Χ‘Φ°ΦΌΧ¨Φ΄Χ™Χͺ), which implies a solemn, binding agreement or pact, often initiated by a superior party. In this context, it highlights God's sovereign initiation of the promise. The verb "remember" is zakhar (Χ–ΦΈΧ›Φ·Χ¨), which in biblical usage often means to act on behalf of a promise or relationship, not merely to recall information. So, God "remembering" means He will actively maintain and fulfill His promise.

Practical Application

Genesis 9:16 offers profound assurance and comfort. It reminds us of God's unchanging character and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even when humanity falls short. The rainbow, appearing after storms, symbolizes hope and the certainty of God's benevolent oversight over His creation. It encourages us to trust in God's word and find peace in His sovereign control, knowing that His covenants are secure and His care extends to all living things.

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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 32:40 (7 votes)

    And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me.

  • Isaiah 54:8 (7 votes)

    In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.

  • Isaiah 54:10 (7 votes)

    For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.

  • 2 Samuel 23:5 (6 votes)

    Although my house [be] not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all [things], and sure: for [this is] all my salvation, and all [my] desire, although he make [it] not to grow.

  • Genesis 17:19 (5 votes)

    And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, [and] with his seed after him.

  • Genesis 17:13 (5 votes)

    He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.

  • Hebrews 13:20 (4 votes)

    Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,