Genesis 7:22

Authorized King James Version

All in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was in the dry land, died.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כֹּ֡ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁר֩

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

נִשְׁמַת

H5397

was the breath

a puff, i.e., wind, angry or vital breath, divine inspiration, intellect. or (concretely) an animal

ר֨וּחַ

H7307

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

חַיִּ֜ים

H2416

of life

alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

בְּאַפָּ֗יו

H639

All in whose nostrils

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

מִכֹּ֛ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

בֶּחָֽרָבָ֖ה

H2724

of all that was in the dry

a desert

#10

מֵֽתוּ׃

H4191

land died

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of life reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding life in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?

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