Old Testament
Genesis 9:5
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 emphasizes the value of life and the seriousness of taking it.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
I will require your lifeblood; I will require it from every animal and from every person. From each person's brother, I will require the life of a human being.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God emphasizes the value of life and the seriousness of taking it. He declares that both animals and humans are accountable for the shedding of blood. If an animal kills a person, that animal must pay the price. Similarly, if one person takes the life of another, they will also face consequences. This establishes a principle of justice and respect for life. God is making it clear that life is precious, and there are severe repercussions for ending it. This command serves as a reminder of the sanctity of human life and the responsibility we have towards one another. It highlights the interconnectedness of humanity, where each person's life is valued and protected. The message is clear: life should be cherished, and taking it lightly can lead to dire consequences. This verse sets a foundation for understanding the importance of justice and accountability in our relationships with others and the world around us. It calls us to reflect on how we treat life in all its forms.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 9:5 to your life
We should recognize the value of every life, including our own and others. This verse encourages us to treat each person with respect and dignity. Consider how your actions impact those around you and strive to promote life and justice in your community. Reflect on the importance of accountability in your relationships and decisions. Choose to uplift rather than harm others in your daily interactions.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 9:5 mean?
Genesis 9:5 emphasizes the value of life and the accountability for taking it. It states that both animals and humans will face consequences for shedding blood, highlighting the seriousness of respecting life.
What is the meaning of 'lifeblood' in Genesis 9:5?
'Lifeblood' refers to the essence of life that is contained in blood. In this verse, it signifies the importance of life and the severe repercussions for taking it, whether by humans or animals.
How does Genesis 9:5 relate to accountability?
Genesis 9:5 relates to accountability by stating that individuals will be held responsible for the lives they take. This verse underscores the importance of recognizing the impact of our actions on others.
What themes are present in Genesis 9:5?
The themes present in Genesis 9:5 include the value of life, justice, accountability, the sanctity of life, and the interconnectedness of humanity. These themes highlight the importance of treating life with respect.

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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