King James Version

What Does Genesis 9:7 Mean?

Genesis 9:7 in the King James Version says “And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.”

Genesis 9:7 · KJV

Context

5

And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.

6

Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

7

And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.

8

And God spake unto Noah, and to his sons with him, saying,

9

And I, behold, I establish my covenant with you, and with your seed after you;

Read Genesis 9 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.... 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. What does this passage reveal about God's sovereignty and human responsibility?
  2. How should this truth about Ham's Sin shape our daily decisions and priorities?
  3. What connections can we trace from this verse to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְאַתֶּ֖ם1 of 7
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

פְּר֣וּ2 of 7

“And you be ye fruitful”

H6509

to bear fruit (literally or figuratively)

וּרְבוּ3 of 7

“and multiply”

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

שִׁרְצ֥וּ4 of 7

“bring forth abundantly”

H8317

to wriggle, i.e., (by implication) swarm or abound

בָאָ֖רֶץ5 of 7

“in the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וּרְבוּ6 of 7

“and multiply”

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

בָֽהּ׃7 of 7
H0

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 9:7 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 9:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 9:1Genesis 1:28Genesis 9:19Genesis 8:17

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

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