Genesis 7:10

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass after seven days, that the waters of the flood were upon the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִ֖י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
לְשִׁבְעַ֣ת
And it came to pass after seven
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
#3
הַיָּמִ֑ים
days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#4
וּמֵ֣י
that the waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#5
הַמַּבּ֔וּל
of the flood
a deluge
#6
הָי֖וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
were upon the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

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