King James Version
What Does Genesis 9:20 Mean?
“And Noah began to be an husbandman , and he planted a vineyard:”
Context
18
And the sons of Noah, that went forth of the ark, were Shem, and Ham, and Japheth: and Ham is the father of Canaan. Canaan: Heb. Chenaan
19
These are the three sons of Noah: and of them was the whole earth overspread.
20
And Noah began to be an husbandman , and he planted a vineyard:
21
And he drank of the wine, and was drunken; and he was uncovered within his tent.
22
And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and told his two brethren without.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(20, 21) **Noah began to be an husbandman.**—Rather, *Noah, being a husbandman *(Heb., *a man of the adâmâh*)*, began to plant a vineyard. *Noah had always been a husbandman: it was the cultivation of the vine, still abundant in Armenia, that was new. Scarcely aware, perhaps, of the intoxicating qualities of the juice which he had allowed to ferment, he drank to excess, and became the first example of the shameful effects of intemperance.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 9:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Genesis 9:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge