Genesis 9:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Animals will fear humans, and are given into human authority.
The Context of Genesis 9:2
God establishes human authority over animals after the flood.
What Does Genesis 9:2 Mean?
Where before the flood humans and animals may have lived without such fear, now a fundamental shift occurs: the animals will instinctively dread humanity. This change reflects the new relationship established after the flood, with humans placed in a position of dominion over all creatures.
This grant of authority parallels the original dominion given in Genesis, but now with explicit mention of animals' natural fear. Humans are authorized stewards responsible for the creatures entrusted to their care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 9:2
What does Genesis 9:2 mean?
Animals will fear humans, and are given into human authority.
What is the context of Genesis 9:2?
God establishes human authority over animals after the flood.