Genesis 9 marks a significant turning point after the great flood. God blesses Noah and his sons, instructing them to multiply and repopulate the earth. God grants them dominion over all living creatures and allows them to eat animals for sustenance, while prohibiting the consumption of blood.
God establishes a covenant with Noah and his descendants, promising never to destroy all flesh with a flood again. As a sign of this covenant, God sets a rainbow in the sky. Noah’s sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, become the ancestors of different nations.
However, Noah’s righteousness is soon tested when he becomes drunk and uncovered in his tent. Ham, his son, disrespects him by mocking and telling his brothers. In contrast, Shem and Japheth respectfully cover their father’s nakedness without looking at him.
When Noah wakes up, he pronounces blessings and curses upon his sons’ future generations. Canaan, Ham’s son, is cursed, while blessings are bestowed upon Shem and Japheth. Noah lived for 350 years after the flood and eventually passed away.
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