Genesis 9:6

Authorized King James Version

Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִשָּׁפֵ֑ךְ
Whoso sheddeth
to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc
#2
דָּמ֣וֹ
blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#3
הָֽאָדָֽם׃
by man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#4
הָֽאָדָֽם׃
by man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#5
דָּמ֣וֹ
blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#6
יִשָּׁפֵ֑ךְ
Whoso sheddeth
to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc
#7
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#8
בְּצֶ֣לֶם
for in the image
a phantom, i.e., (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol
#9
אֱלֹהִ֔ים
of God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#10
עָשָׂ֖ה
made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#11
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
הָֽאָדָֽם׃
by man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

Analysis

The creation and providence theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources