King James Version

What Does Genesis 8:10 Mean?

Genesis 8:10 in the King James Version says “And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;”

Genesis 8:10 · KJV

Context

8

Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;

9

But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark. pulled: Heb. caused her to come

10

And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;

11

And the dove came in to him in the evening ; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

12

And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.

Read Genesis 8 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;... This passage belongs to the primeval history section (Genesis 1-11) which establishes universal truths about God, humanity, sin, and divine purposes before focusing on Abraham and Israel. These chapters answer fundamental questions about human origins, the spread of wickedness, God's judgment, and the preservation of a righteous remnant.

Recurring patterns emerge: human sin escalating from individual disobedience to societal corruption, divine patience followed by judgment, gracious preservation of a remnant, and covenant promises ensuring redemptive purposes continue. The genealogies connect historical persons, demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises (blessing and multiplication), and trace the line leading to Abraham and ultimately Christ.

Key theological themes in this section include: (1) sin's destructive progression affecting all humanity; (2) God's righteous judgment while preserving mercy; (3) human pride and autonomy opposing divine sovereignty; (4) cultural development as both blessing and potential idolatry; (5) God's sovereign plan advancing despite human rebellion. These narratives provide the necessary context for understanding God's calling of Abraham and the covenant promises through which all nations will be blessed.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The primeval history (Genesis 1-11) parallels ancient Near Eastern traditions including Sumerian King Lists (pre-flood longevity), Akkadian flood traditions (Atrahasis, Gilgamesh), and Mesopotamian city foundation myths. However, Genesis demythologizes these traditions, presenting monotheistic history rather than polytheistic mythology. The genealogies connecting Adam to Noah to Abraham provide historical framework absent in pagan myths.

Archaeological evidence confirms ancient urbanization (chapter 4's cities), agricultural development, metallurgy, and musical instruments emerging in Mesopotamia's early history. The Babel account reflects Mesopotamian ziggurat construction (stepped pyramid temples), particularly in Babylon. Linguistic diversity requiring explanation was obvious to ancient peoples, making the Babel narrative culturally relevant.

For Israel in covenant with Yahweh, these chapters explained their relationship to surrounding nations. All peoples descended from Noah, but Israel descended from Shem through Abraham—chosen for blessing all nations. The flood demonstrated God's justice and mercy: judging wickedness while preserving the righteous. This pattern would recur throughout Israel's history, assuring them that God's covenant faithfulness endures despite judgment on the wicked.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding this verse shape our doctrine of humanity, sin, or salvation?
  2. What obstacles prevent us from living out the truths presented in this verse?
  3. How does this passage point forward to Christ and the gospel of redemption?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וַיָּ֣חֶל1 of 11

“And he stayed”

H2342

properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi

ע֔וֹד2 of 11
H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

שִׁבְעַ֥ת3 of 11

“seven”

H7651

seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number

יָמִ֖ים4 of 11

“days”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

אֲחֵרִ֑ים5 of 11

“yet other”

H312

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

וַיֹּ֛סֶף6 of 11

“and again”

H3254

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

שַׁלַּ֥ח7 of 11

“he sent forth”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

אֶת8 of 11
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַיּוֹנָ֖ה9 of 11

“the dove”

H3123

a dove (apparently from the warmth of their mating)

מִן10 of 11
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַתֵּבָֽה׃11 of 11

“out of the ark”

H8392

a box

Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Genesis 8:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Genesis 8:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 7:4Genesis 7:10Isaiah 8:17Romans 8:25Psalms 40:1Isaiah 26:8

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