Genesis 7:16 - Those who went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God commanded him; then Yahweh shut him in.

Generated Verse: Genesis 7:16

What does "Genesis 7:16" mean?


Genesis 7:16 is a pivotal verse in the Noah's Ark narrative. Let's break down its meaning:

"Those who went in, went in male and female of all flesh..." This reinforces the idea that Noah followed God's instructions precisely. He brought pairs of every kind of animal ("all flesh") onto the ark, ensuring their survival and the continuation of life on Earth after the flood. The phrase "male and female" is crucial, as it emphasizes the need for reproduction.

"...as God commanded him..." This underscores Noah's obedience. His actions were not of his own volition but were a direct response to God's specific instructions. This obedience is a central theme in the Noah story.

"...then Yahweh shut him in." This is arguably the most significant part of the verse. "Yahweh" is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. The act of God shutting the door is important for several reasons:

Divine Protection: It signifies God's active protection and preservation of Noah, his family, and the animals within the ark. They were now sealed off from the impending judgment and the catastrophic flood.
Divine Authority: By personally shutting the door, God affirms his complete control over the situation. It's a clear indication that this event is not random or accidental, but a divinely ordained act of judgment and subsequent new beginning.
Finality: The closing of the door represents the finality of the decision. There was no turning back, and no one else could enter. The time for repentance and salvation had passed.

In summary, Genesis 7:16 signifies:

Noah's complete obedience to God's command to preserve life.
God's active role in protecting those on the ark from the coming flood.
The finality and divine authority behind the judgment and salvation being carried out.

The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience, God's sovereignty, and his role as both judge and savior. It's a critical moment in the story, marking the transition from preparation to the actual unfolding of the flood.