Genesis 9:2

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وخَوْفُكم وذُعرُكم يَكونانِ على جَميعِ وحُوشِ الأَرضِ وجَميعِ طُيورِ السَّماءِ وكُلِّ ما يَدِبُّ على الأَرضِ وأَسماكِ البَحْر، فإِنَّها مُسَلَّمةٌ إِلى أَيْديكم.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Genesis states that all creatures, from land animals to birds and fish, will fear and be in awe of humans. God is speaking to Noah and his family, promising them dominion over the animals as they repopulate the earth after the flood.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're the strongest kid in your neighborhood. All the other kids look up to you and might be a little scared of you. That's how animals feel about people in this verse. God tells Noah that all animals will respect and be a bit scared of humans.

Historical Background

This verse was part of the Book of Genesis, traditionally attributed to Moses. It was written around the 14th to 13th century BCE. The audience was the Israelites, and the cultural setting was the post-flood world where God is re-establishing humanity's relationship with animals.

Living It Out Today

Think about pet owners today who notice that their dogs or cats seem more afraid of strangers than of them. This verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for and manage the world around us, with respect and a sense of divine mandate.

Topics

• dominion
• respect
• responsibility
• repopulation
• post-flood
• divine mandate

Related Verses

• Genesis 1:28
• Psalm 8:6
• Psalm 145:10
• Romans 8:19
• Hebrews 2:8

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'fear' mean in this context?

The 'fear' here doesn't mean terror but rather a respectful awe, implying a natural order where animals recognize humans' authority.

Why did God make animals fear humans?

God intended for humans to have dominion over animals, and this fear ensured a balance where animals would avoid conflict with humans, aiding in survival.

How does this verse relate to environmental stewardship?

This verse underscores the responsibility humans have to care for animals and the environment, recognizing our role as caretakers under God's guidance.

Can this verse be applied to pets today?

Yes, it can be seen as a reminder that pets and domestic animals often show a respectful fear of their human caretakers, reflecting the ancient mandate of human dominion.