Genesis 9:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →When the rainbow appears, God looks upon it as a reminder of the eternal covenant.
The Context of Genesis 9:16
The rainbow serves as God's perpetual reminder of the everlasting covenant.
What Does Genesis 9:16 Mean?
The rainbow becomes a sign not only for humanity but also for God Himself. By declaring 'I will look upon it,' God establishes the rainbow as His own memorial device, a perpetual prompt to His faithfulness. This anthropomorphic language emphasizes the reliability of the covenant.
The covenant is described as 'everlasting,' transcending any temporal limitation. Every time the rainbow appears, it represents God's eternal commitment to preserve creation from total destruction—a promise that never expires.
Genesis 9:16 in the Original Language
olam (עוֹלָם), 'everlasting'—enduring without end; eternal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 9:16
What does Genesis 9:16 mean?
When the rainbow appears, God looks upon it as a reminder of the eternal covenant.
What is the context of Genesis 9:16?
The rainbow serves as God's perpetual reminder of the everlasting covenant.