Genesis 6:19
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 6:19 · King James Version
Meaning
Genesis 6:19 instructs Noah to bring two of every living thing, male and female, onto the ark to preserve the various species during the great flood. This verse emphasizes the importance of reproduction and the continuation of all living creatures. By bringing a pair of each animal, Noah ensures that the diversity of species is maintained after the floodwaters subside. The verse highlights God's care for all His creations and the importance of human stewardship over the earth and its inhabitants. It serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life and the responsibility to protect and nurture the natural world. As readers reflect on this verse, they are prompted to consider their role in preserving biodiversity and caring for the environment in order to safeguard the future of God's creation.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse emphasizes the importance of God's provision for all living creatures during the great flood. By instructing Noah to bring two of every living thing into the ark, God demonstrates His care and concern for His creation. This act of preservation highlights God's sovereignty over all living things and His desire to protect and sustain them. The mention of male and female pairs underscores the importance of maintaining the continuity of each species. This verse also serves as a reminder of the covenant between God and all living creatures, as He promises to keep them alive through the flood. The word "alive" in this context shows God's intention to ensure the survival of every living thing, illustrating His compassion and mercy.
Genesis 6:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
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.
World English Bible
Of every living thing of all flesh, you shall bring two of every sort into the ship, to keep them alive with you. They shall be male and female.
Douay-Rheims
And of every living creature of all flesh, thou shalt bring two of a sort into the ark, that they may live with thee: of the male sex, and the female.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And of euery liuing thing, of all flesh two of euery sort shalt thou cause to come into the Arke, to keepe them aliue with thee: they shalbe male and female.