King James Version
Genesis 7:20 in the King James Version says “Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered.” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered.”
Genesis 7:20 · KJV
And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters.
And the waters prevailed exceedingly upon the earth; and all the high hills, that were under the whole heaven, were covered.
Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered.
And all flesh died that moved upon the earth, both of fowl, and of cattle, and of beast, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, and every man:
All in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was in the dry land, died. the breath: Heb. the breath of the spirit of life
KJV Study — Public Domain
“cubits”
H520properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
“upward”
H4605properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc
“were covered”
H3680properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Genesis 7:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Genesis 7:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge