Genesis 8:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Noah sends a raven to scout; it flies back and forth until the earth dries.
The Context of Genesis 8:7
A raven is sent to scout conditions as the floodwaters dry.
What Does Genesis 8:7 Mean?
The raven, a clean-eating bird, is sent out to gather information. The raven's ability to eat carrion means it can find food anywhere; it returns to the ark repeatedly, flying to and fro over the landscape, testing whether dry land is ready for settlement.
The raven's continuing returns indicate there is still too much water or insufficient forage for it to establish itself. Noah uses the bird as a biological tool to gauge the earth's readiness.
Genesis 8:7 in the Original Language
šālach (שָׁלַח), 'sent forth' — to release or send away intentionally, showing deliberate action.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 8:7
What does Genesis 8:7 mean?
Noah sends a raven to scout; it flies back and forth until the earth dries.
What is the context of Genesis 8:7?
A raven is sent to scout conditions as the floodwaters dry.