Genesis 9:25 Meaning and Explanation
“And he said, Cursed be Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Noah curses Canaan, Ham's son, declaring he will serve his brothers.
The Context of Genesis 9:25
Noah curses Canaan to perpetual servitude for Ham's disrespect.
What Does Genesis 9:25 Mean?
Noah pronounces a curse not upon Ham himself but upon Canaan, Ham's son. This curse declares Canaan will be 'a servant of servants'—the lowest form of servitude. The curse is spoken by one whose dignity was violated and who now exercises patriarchal authority to define his household's future.
The severity of the curse reflects the severity of the offense: disrespect toward a parent is met with the lowest station. Canaan becomes the bearer of consequences for his father's dishonor, establishing a pattern of intergenerational judgment for family transgression.
Genesis 9:25 in the Original Language
eved (עָבֶד), 'servant'—one bound to service; the doubled form emphasizes the lowest status.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 9:25
What does Genesis 9:25 mean?
Noah curses Canaan, Ham's son, declaring he will serve his brothers.
What is the context of Genesis 9:25?
Noah curses Canaan to perpetual servitude for Ham's disrespect.