Genesis 8:12

Authorized King James Version

And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּיָּ֣חֶל

H3176

And he stayed

to wait; by implication, to be patient, hope

עֽוֹד׃

H5750

unto him any more

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

שִׁבְעַ֥ת

H7651

seven

seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number

יָמִ֖ים

H3117

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

אֲחֵרִ֑ים

H312

yet other

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

וַיְשַׁלַּח֙

H7971

and sent forth

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַיּוֹנָ֔ה

H3123

the dove

a dove (apparently from the warmth of their mating)

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

יָסְפָ֥ה

H3254

not again

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

#11

שׁוּב

H7725

which returned

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

#12

אֵלָ֖יו

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#13

עֽוֹד׃

H5750

unto him any more

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation 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

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

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline