Genesis 7:3 - Also of the birds of the sky, seven and seven, male and female, to keep seed alive on the surface of all the earth.

Generated Verse: Genesis 7:3

What does "Genesis 7:3" mean?


This verse, Genesis 7:3, is part of the Noah's Ark narrative in the Bible and speaks specifically about the animals Noah was instructed to bring onto the ark to survive the Great Flood. Let's break down what it means:

"Also of the birds of the sky, seven and seven...": This refers to birds, specifically. "Seven and seven" means seven pairs, or fourteen total, of each kind of bird. Some translations may say "seven and seven" or "seven pairs". This instruction contrasts with other animals, of which Noah was commanded to take only two of each kind (a male and a female).

"...male and female...": This clarifies that Noah was to take both a male and a female of each type of bird to ensure reproduction.

"...to keep seed alive on the surface of all the earth.": This is the purpose of taking the birds onto the ark. "Seed" here refers to the ability to reproduce and continue the species. The phrase "on the surface of all the earth" indicates that the goal was to repopulate the entire planet with birds after the floodwaters receded.

In simpler terms:

God instructed Noah to bring fourteen birds (seven pairs) of every kind onto the ark—a male and a female for each type—so that after the flood, birds could reproduce and repopulate the entire world.

Key Interpretations and Considerations:

"Clean" vs. "Unclean" Animals: While not explicitly stated in this verse, it is implied that these instructions for "seven and seven" apply to birds considered "clean" for sacrificial purposes. The earlier passage Genesis 7:2 indicates Noah was to take "seven pairs" of "clean animals" while only a single pair of "unclean animals". Birds could be considered "clean" or "unclean" based on dietary rules for sacrifices to God.

Preservation of Biodiversity: The verse highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity. God's command ensures that a variety of bird species survives the catastrophe.

Repopulation: The verse emphasizes the theme of a new beginning. After the destruction of the flood, the animals saved on the ark will be responsible for repopulating the earth.

This verse emphasizes God's plan for the earth's recovery after the flood, highlighting His intention not just to cleanse the earth of wickedness, but also to restore it and allow life to flourish once more.

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