Book of Genesis - Chapter 6 - Verse 21
Meaning
The verse 'And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.' is taken from the biblical account of the story of Noah's ark in the book of Genesis. In this verse, God instructs Noah to gather all the necessary food for both himself and all the living creatures on the ark. This directive highlights the importance of provision and care for all living beings, showing God's compassion for his creation. It also serves as a lesson in preparedness and responsibility, as Noah was tasked with ensuring the well-being of not only himself but also the animals under his care during the duration of the flood. This verse reminds us of the importance of stewardship and the interconnectedness of all living things, emphasizing the value of taking care of one another in times of need.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from Genesis 6:21 highlights the importance of God's provision and care for His creation. By instructing Noah to gather food for himself and all the animals on the ark, God demonstrates His concern for the well-being of every living creature. This verse emphasizes the concept of stewardship, as Noah is tasked with responsibly gathering and distributing food to sustain both himself and the animals during their time on the ark.
Furthermore, a word study of the phrase "all food that is eaten" reveals the inclusivity of God's command. This phrase encompasses a wide variety of food sources, indicating that God's provision is abundant and diverse. It also emphasizes the necessity of nourishment for survival, underscoring God's wisdom in providing for the physical needs of His creatures.
In essence, this verse symbolizes God's enduring care and faithfulness towards His creation, as He ensures that all living beings are provided for in times of trial and hardship. By obeying God's command to gather food for himself and the animals, Noah exemplifies trust and obedience in God's provision, serving as a model of faith for all believers to follow.