Genesis 9:7
And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.
Genesis 9:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in Genesis 9:7, is part of God's command to Noah and his sons after the flood. In this verse, God instructs them to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth. This command is often seen as a continuation of the original command given to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28 to be fruitful and multiply. By reiterating this command to Noah and his sons, God is emphasizing the importance of human procreation and the continuation of the human race. The phrase "bring forth abundantly in the earth" highlights God's desire for humanity to spread across the earth and inhabit it fully. The repeated emphasis on multiplying underscores the significance of family, community, and the perpetuation of life. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's original design for human beings to populate the earth and live in harmony with each other and with creation.
Theological Overview
Genesis 9:7 instructs mankind to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth. In a theological interpretation, this verse reflects God's original command to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28 to be fruitful and multiply. It emphasizes the importance of procreation and the continuation of the human race. The phrase "be fruitful" signifies not only physical reproduction but also spiritual growth and productivity in one's life. "Multiply" goes beyond merely increasing in numbers but also suggests spreading the knowledge of God and His kingdom. By bringing forth abundantly in the earth, humans are called to be stewards of God's creation, cultivating the world around them. Additionally, the command to multiply therein underscores the responsibility to populate the earth and uphold God's divine plan for creation. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of humanity's purpose to expand, nurture, and propagate the goodness of God throughout the earth.
Genesis 9:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.
World English Bible
Be fruitful and multiply. Increase abundantly in the earth, and multiply in it.”
Douay-Rheims
But increase you and multiply, and go upon the earth and fill it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But bring ye forth fruite and multiplie: grow plentifully in the earth, and increase therein.