Genesis 9 - Introduction - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Bible Comments

A.M. 1659. B.C. 2345.

In this chapter is,

(1,) The covenant of Providence settled with Noah and his sons, Genesis 9:1-11. In this covenant, 1, God promiseth that they should replenish the earth, Genesis 9:1-7. Should be safe from the insults of the brute creatures, which should stand in awe of them, 2. Should be allowed to eat flesh for the support of their lives, only they must not eat blood, Genesis 9:3-4. That the world should never be drowned again, Genesis 9:9-11; Genesis 9:2, God requires of them to take care of one another's lives, and of their own, Genesis 9:5-6.

(2,) The seal of that covenant, viz., the rainbow, Genesis 9:12-17.

(3,) An account of Noah and his sons. 1, Noah's sin and shame, Genesis 9:20-21; Genesis 9:2, Ham's impudence and impiety, Genesis 9:22; Genesis 9:3, The pious modesty of Shem and Japheth, Genesis 9:23; Genesis 9:4, The curse of Canaan, and the blessing of Shem and Japheth, Genesis 9:24-27.

(4,) The age and death of Noah, Genesis 9:28-29.