Genesis 6:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God observes that all living things have corrupted their way.
The Context of Genesis 6:12
God confirms the universal corruption.
What Does Genesis 6:12 Mean?
God's observation is thorough: looking upon the earth, God sees what is there. The corruption is confirmed and universal—'all flesh' (kol basar) has corrupted 'his way' (darkah)—the way, path, or manner of life proper to each creature. Not just humans but all flesh has departed from right conduct. The word 'all' emphasizes completeness; corruption is not localized but pervasive.
The repetition of 'corrupt' from verse 11 reinforces the seriousness of the condition. What was declared true about the earth (verse 11) is confirmed when God observes it directly (verse 12). The diagnosis is complete: corruption is the reality of creation at this moment.
Genesis 6:12 in the Original Language
darkah (דַּרְכָהּ), 'way' — the way, path, manner of life; the characteristic behavior or conduct.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 6:12
What does Genesis 6:12 mean?
God observes that all living things have corrupted their way.
What is the context of Genesis 6:12?
God confirms the universal corruption.