Genesis 9

Dods referred to this chapter as the "Fall of Noah," but it might equally be called the "Second Fall of Mankind." A number of things which are of the greatest consequence to humanity are introduced in this chapter; and John Skinner noted that, "As a historical document, it is of the highest importance.[1] The profound conception of the unity of mankind and the religious primacy of Israel were cited by Skinner, but much more is found. Here is the origin of capital punishment (Unger), the judiciary (Keil), the institution of government, and the beginning of the second descent of humanity into a condition of hardening and rebellion against God.

The most remarkable thing in the chapter is that the great hero of the Flood is here presented as a weak and sinful man, the reason for this, in all likelihood being that of removing any thought that even one like Noah, who assuredly was "righteous in his generation," and a "preacher of righteousness" (2 Peter 2:5), would be able to provide the Saviour that man needed. Only the Holy One, Jesus our Lord, would be able to do that.

SUMMARY OF THE CHAPTER

The Adamic blessing, extended and elaborated, is conveyed to Noah, thus investing him with the status of a second father of all mankind, and also a barrier against the gross violence of the antediluvians is established in the law of capital punishment (Genesis 9:1-7). The rainbow covenant appears in Genesis 9:8-17, and the sin and dishonoring of Noah, along with the prophetic blessing (and curse) upon the major segments of humanity making up his posterity are found in Genesis 9:18-29.