King James Version

What Does Genesis 9:20 Mean?

Genesis 9:20 in the King James Version says “And Noah began to be an husbandman , and he planted a vineyard:” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Noah began to be an husbandman , and he planted a vineyard:”

Genesis 9:20 · KJV

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.

Read Genesis 9 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard:... 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. How can we apply the principles from this passage to contemporary challenges in family, work, or church?
  3. In what ways does this narrative foreshadow or typify aspects of Christ's redemptive work?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וַיָּ֥חֶל1 of 6

“began”

H2490

properly, to bore, i.e., (by implication) to wound, to dissolve; figuratively, to profane (a person, place or thing), to break (one's word), to begin

נֹ֖חַ2 of 6

“And Noah”

H5146

noach, the patriarch of the flood

אִ֣ישׁ3 of 6
H582

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

הָֽאֲדָמָ֑ה4 of 6
H127

soil (from its general redness)

וַיִּטַּ֖ע5 of 6

“and he planted”

H5193

properly, to strike in, i.e., fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively)

כָּֽרֶם׃6 of 6

“a vineyard”

H3754

a garden or vineyard

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 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 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 28:24-26Genesis 4:2Proverbs 10:11Genesis 3:18-19Genesis 3:23Ecclesiastes 5:9

Test Your Knowledge

Genesis 9 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterGenesis Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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