Genesis 9:3 (KJV)

What does Genesis 9:3 mean?

Genesis 9:3 says that every living, moving creature can now be used for food, just as plants had been given for food before. God is telling Noah and his family that all animals, as well as green plants, are available for them to eat after the flood.

God is speaking directly to Noah and his sons after they leave the ark, following the flood. This is part of a new set of instructions for humanity in a changed world. The verse marks a shift from earlier times, when people were only given plants to eat, by now including animals as permitted food.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 9:3

• "thing" (רֶמֶשׂ, remes): This word often refers to animals that move or creep, not just any object. Here, it emphasizes that all kinds of moving creatures are included, not just certain animals.
• "liveth" (חַי, chai): This word means "living" or "alive," highlighting that only living creatures, not dead ones, are meant for food.
• "meat" (אָכְלָה, okhlah): This word means "food" in general, not just meat as in flesh. The verse is about what can be eaten, not only animal flesh.
• "green" (יֶרֶק, yereq): This word means "green" or "vegetable," pointing to plants that are fresh and edible.
• "herb" (עֵשֶׂב, esev): This word means "herb" or "plant," referring to vegetation given for food.
• "given" (נָתַן, natan): This word means "to give," showing that God is granting permission or providing these things as food.

Why Genesis 9:3 matters

• Genesis 9:3 clarifies that after the flood, God expanded what humans could eat, moving from a plant-based diet to include animals, which was not stated before.
• The verse connects to the broader passage where God is establishing a new covenant with Noah and his descendants, setting out new guidelines for life on earth.
• Understanding the original words helps clear up that the permission is broad, including all living, moving creatures, not just certain animals or only meat in the modern sense.