Genesis 7:22

Of all that was on dry land, everything that had the breath of life in its nostrils died.

Study Bible

Of all that was on dry land
This phrase emphasizes the scope of the flood's impact, indicating that it affected all terrestrial life. The flood narrative in Genesis is a pivotal event that demonstrates God's judgment on a corrupt world. The mention of "dry land" distinguishes between creatures that lived on land and those in the water, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the flood. This aligns with the ancient Near Eastern understanding of the world, where land and water were distinct realms. The flood's universality is echoed in other ancient texts, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, though the biblical account uniquely emphasizes divine judgment and mercy.

everything that had the breath of life in its nostrils
The "breath of life" is a phrase that recalls the creation account in Genesis 2:7, where God breathes life into Adam. This connection underscores the sanctity and divine origin of life. The breath of life signifies the animating force given by God, distinguishing living beings from inanimate objects. The focus on nostrils may reflect the Hebrew understanding of life as intimately connected to breath, a concept also seen in Job 27:3. This phrase serves as a reminder of the life-giving power of God and the seriousness of His judgment when life is taken away.

died
The death of all land-dwelling creatures signifies the totality of the flood's destruction, fulfilling God's warning in Genesis 6:17. This event prefigures later acts of divine judgment, such as the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and ultimately points to the final judgment described in Revelation. Theologically, this death serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the holiness of God. It also foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who conquers death and offers eternal life to those who believe. The flood narrative, therefore, is not only a story of judgment but also a precursor to the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to build the ark and preserve life during the flood.

2. The Flood
A cataclysmic event sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness.

3. The Ark
The vessel constructed by Noah under God's instructions to save his family and pairs of every kind of animal.

4. The Earth
The setting of the flood, which was covered by water, leading to the destruction of all life on dry land.

5. God
The sovereign Creator who judged the earth's wickedness and provided a means of salvation through Noah.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over life and death is absolute. He is the giver and taker of life, and His judgments are just.

The Consequences of Sin
The flood serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment.

The Importance of Obedience
Noah's obedience to God's commands saved him and his family. Our obedience to God is crucial in our walk of faith.

God's Provision of Salvation
Just as God provided the ark as a means of salvation, He provides Jesus Christ as the way to eternal life.

The Urgency of Repentance
The suddenness of the flood underscores the need for immediate repentance and readiness for God's future judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the flood in Genesis 7:22 illustrate the consequences of sin and God's judgment?

2. In what ways does Noah's obedience to God serve as a model for our own lives today?

3. How can we see God's provision and mercy in the midst of judgment, both in the account of the flood and in our own lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the days of Noah and the teachings of Jesus about His second coming?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over life and death impact our daily decisions and attitudes toward Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:7
This verse describes God breathing the breath of life into man, connecting to the idea of life being in the nostrils.

Job 34:14-15
These verses speak of God's control over life and breath, emphasizing His sovereignty over creation.

2 Peter 3:6-7
This passage refers to the flood as a historical event and a precursor to future judgment, drawing a parallel between the two.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus compares the days of Noah to the coming of the Son of Man, highlighting the suddenness and totality of God's judgment.