Old Testament
Genesis 6:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Bring two of every kind of living creature into the boat with you, one male and one female, to keep them alive.
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And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female.
What Genesis 6:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Noah to gather two of every kind of animal, one male and one female, to ensure their survival during the flood. This command highlights the importance of preserving life and the responsibility Noah has to protect these creatures. By bringing them onto the boat, Noah is not just saving them; he is also fulfilling God's plan for creation. Each pair represents the continuation of their species after the floodwaters recede. This act of gathering shows Noah's obedience and trust in God's guidance. It also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the role humans play in caring for the environment. The animals, like Noah, are part of a larger story of hope and renewal. This moment serves as a reminder that every creature has value and a purpose in the world, and that we are called to be stewards of the life around us, ensuring that it thrives even in challenging times. Noah's actions set the stage for a new beginning for all life on Earth.
How to apply Genesis 6:19 to your life
Consider how you can be a steward of the environment and the creatures around you. Reflect on your responsibilities to protect and care for the world. Small actions, like recycling or supporting wildlife conservation, can make a significant difference in preserving life for future generations. Every effort counts in nurturing our planet's health and diversity. Be mindful of your impact on nature and act accordingly to support it.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Noah's story: God Tells Noah to Build an Ark (Genesis 6:5–22)
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Noah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Genesis 6:19
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 6:19 mean?
Genesis 6:19 means that God commanded Noah to bring two of every kind of animal onto the ark, one male and one female, to ensure their survival during the flood. This instruction emphasizes the importance of preserving life and fulfilling God's plan for creation.
What is the significance of bringing animals into the ark in Genesis 6:19?
The significance of bringing animals into the ark is to protect them from the impending flood and ensure the continuation of their species. It highlights Noah's role as a steward of creation and the responsibility humans have to care for all living things.
What does the phrase 'two of every kind' in Genesis 6:19 refer to?
The phrase 'two of every kind' in Genesis 6:19 refers to the requirement for Noah to gather pairs of each animal species, one male and one female, to preserve their existence during the flood. This ensures that life can continue after the floodwaters recede.
How does Genesis 6:19 relate to environmental stewardship?
Genesis 6:19 relates to environmental stewardship by illustrating the responsibility humans have to protect and care for all living creatures. It serves as a reminder that our actions can impact the health and diversity of the planet.
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