Old Testament
Genesis 6:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs Noah to gather enough food for both his family and the animals that will be on the ark.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Also bring along enough food for your family and all the animals."
And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Noah to gather enough food for both his family and the animals that will be on the ark. This shows the importance of preparation and responsibility. Noah is not just saving himself; he is ensuring the survival of all living creatures. The act of gathering food symbolizes care and foresight. It highlights the need to think ahead and plan for the future, especially in challenging times. This moment emphasizes that every life matters and that we should take steps to protect and provide for those who depend on us. By preparing adequately, Noah demonstrates his commitment to fulfilling God's command and caring for creation. This verse reminds us that our actions can have a significant impact on the well-being of others, urging us to be proactive in our responsibilities and relationships. It’s a call to be mindful of the needs of those around us, whether they are family, friends, or even animals in our care. Preparation is a vital part of stewardship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 6:21 to your life
Consider how you can prepare for the needs of those around you. Whether it's family, friends, or pets, think about what they might require in times of difficulty. Taking proactive steps can strengthen your relationships and ensure everyone is cared for. Remember, your actions can make a difference in their lives. Be a source of support and provision for others when they need it most. This is a way to show love and responsibility.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 6:21 teach about preparation?
Genesis 6:21 emphasizes the importance of preparation by showing how Noah was instructed to gather enough food for his family and the animals. This act of gathering symbolizes foresight and responsibility, highlighting that being prepared is crucial, especially in challenging times. It serves as a reminder that we should think ahead and plan for the needs of those who depend on us.
How can we apply the lessons from Genesis 6:21 in our lives?
The lessons from Genesis 6:21 can be applied by taking proactive steps to meet the needs of those around us, whether they are family, friends, or pets. Consider what they might require in times of difficulty and prepare accordingly. This can strengthen relationships and ensure that everyone is cared for, demonstrating love and responsibility in our actions.
Why is the gathering of food significant in this verse?
The gathering of food in Genesis 6:21 is significant because it represents preparation and the foresight needed to ensure survival during the impending flood. It underscores the idea that every life matters and that we should take steps to protect and provide for those who depend on us. This act of gathering is a practical demonstration of care and responsibility.
What can we learn about relationships from Genesis 6:21?
From Genesis 6:21, we learn that relationships require proactive care and preparation. Just as Noah gathered food for his family and the animals, we should consider the needs of those around us and take steps to support them. This verse teaches us that our actions can significantly impact the well-being of others, urging us to be attentive and responsible in our relationships.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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