Genesis 9:5
And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.
Genesis 9:5 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Genesis signifies the importance of the sacredness of human life in the eyes of God. It emphasizes the value God places on human life and His demand for justice when a life is taken. The verse mentions that God will require the blood of a person's life from even the beasts, signifying that all living beings are accountable for the shedding of blood. Additionally, God states that He will hold man accountable for the life of his brother, highlighting the importance of human relationships and the responsibility individuals have towards one another. The verse serves as a reminder of the sanctity of life and the consequences of taking another person's life, reinforcing the idea that every life is precious in the eyes of God.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from Genesis 9:5 underscores the sanctity of human life in God's eyes. Here, God establishes the principle that the shedding of human blood is a serious offense, and anyone who takes a life - whether beast or man - will be held accountable. This emphasizes the inherent value of human life and the responsibility to protect and respect it. The concept of blood being required signifies a moral demand for justice and retribution for the shedding of innocent blood. It reflects God's concern for justice and the human accountability for our actions. This verse serves as a foundational principle for the sanctity of human life and the importance of upholding justice and righteousness in society. Through word studies, we can further explore the nuances of the original language and deepen our understanding of the profound theological truths conveyed in this passage.
Genesis 9:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And surely your blood, [the blood] of your lives, will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it: and at the hand of man, even at the hand of every man's brother, will I require the life of man.
World English Bible
I will surely require your blood of your lives; at the hand of every animal I will require it. At the hand of man, even at the hand of every man’s brother, I will require the life of man.
Douay-Rheims
For I will require the blood of your lives at the hand of every beast, and at the hand of man, at the hand of every man, and of his brother, will I require the life of man.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For surely I will require your blood, wherein your liues are: at the hand of euery beast will I require it: and at the hand of man, euen at the hand of a mans brother will I require the life of man.