Genesis 7:3

and seven pairs of every kind of bird of the air, male and female, to preserve their offspring on the face of all the earth.

Study Bible

and also seven
The phrase "and also seven" indicates a specific divine instruction given to Noah. The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's perfect plan for creation and preservation. In the context of the flood narrative, the number seven signifies the completeness of God's provision for the continuation of life. The Hebrew word for seven, "שִׁבְעָה" (shiv'ah), is rooted in the idea of fullness and abundance, underscoring God's thorough care in ensuring the survival of His creation.

of every kind of bird
This phrase emphasizes the diversity and richness of God's creation. The Hebrew word for "kind" is "מִין" (min), which refers to a category or species. God's command to preserve "every kind of bird" highlights His intention to maintain the ecological balance and biodiversity of the earth. Birds, often seen as symbols of freedom and transcendence, represent the beauty and variety of life that God cherishes and seeks to protect.

male and female
The specification of "male and female" underscores the importance of procreation and the continuation of species. This mirrors the creation narrative in Genesis 1, where God created living creatures according to their kinds, male and female, to be fruitful and multiply. The Hebrew words "זָכָר" (zakar) for male and "נְקֵבָה" (neqebah) for female highlight the complementary nature of the sexes in God's design, ensuring the perpetuation of life through reproduction.

to keep their offspring alive
This phrase reveals God's purpose in preserving the animals: the continuation of life on earth. The Hebrew word "חַי" (chai), meaning life, is central to this purpose. God's covenant with Noah includes the promise of life and renewal after the flood. This directive to "keep their offspring alive" reflects God's enduring commitment to His creation, ensuring that life would flourish once again after the judgment of the flood.

on the face of all the earth
The phrase "on the face of all the earth" signifies the global scope of God's plan. The Hebrew word for earth, "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), encompasses the entire world, indicating that God's concern and provision extend to all creation. This underscores the universality of God's covenant with Noah, which is not limited to a specific region or people but encompasses the whole earth. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His overarching plan for redemption and restoration of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah under God's instructions to save his family and pairs of all living creatures from the flood.

3. The Flood
A divine judgment sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness.

4. Birds of the Air
Specific creatures mentioned in this verse, representing the diversity of life God intended to preserve.

5. God
The Creator who orchestrates the events of the flood and the preservation of life.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Care
God’s detailed instructions to Noah reflect His sovereign plan and care for all creation. He values every creature and ensures their survival.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
Noah’s compliance with God’s commands, including the gathering of birds, exemplifies faithful obedience. Believers are called to trust and follow God’s guidance, even when it requires meticulous attention to detail.

Preservation of Life
The preservation of birds and other creatures signifies God’s commitment to life and His desire for its continuation. Christians are encouraged to value and protect life in all its forms.

Faith in Action
Noah’s actions demonstrate faith in action. Believers are reminded that faith often requires tangible steps of obedience and preparation.

God’s Provision and Promise
The provision for the survival of species points to God’s promise of restoration and continuity. This assurance can comfort believers facing trials, knowing God has a plan for preservation and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Noah's obedience in gathering the animals, including birds, challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we see God's care for creation in our own lives, and how should this influence our stewardship of the environment?

3. How does the preservation of life during the flood foreshadow God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faith in action, similar to Noah's example?

5. How can understanding God's sovereignty and care in Genesis 7:3 help us trust Him more in uncertain times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:20-22
This passage describes the creation of birds and their blessing to multiply, connecting to God's intention to preserve them through the flood.

Genesis 6:19-20
These verses provide the initial command to bring animals into the ark, highlighting the importance of preserving life.

Matthew 10:29-31
Jesus speaks of God's care for the sparrows, illustrating His concern for all creation, which is evident in His instructions to Noah.

Hebrews 11:7
Noah's faith is commended, showing his obedience to God's commands, including the gathering of animals.

Psalm 50:11
God declares His knowledge of all the birds, emphasizing His sovereignty and care over creation.