Genesis Chapter 6 Explained in Detail – The Sons of God, the Giants, and Noah’s Ark
The Corruption of Mankind
Genesis chapter 6 opens with a sobering observation about the moral decline of humanity. As the population of the earth began to multiply, the text notes that “the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose” (Genesis 6:2). This phrase has generated theological debate for centuries.
Some scholars interpret “the sons of God” as angelic beings who left their heavenly domain to marry human women, leading to an unnatural union. Others believe they refer to the godly lineage of Seth intermarrying with the ungodly descendants of Cain. Regardless of interpretation, the text emphasizes a key point: a boundary was crossed that displeased God.
This transgression contributed to an environment of escalating wickedness, prompting God to limit humanity’s lifespan: “My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years” (Genesis 6:3). This was not only a warning but a countdown to judgment.
The Giants in the Earth
Genesis 6:4 introduces another controversial group — the Nephilim: “There were giants in the earth in those days.” These beings, also called “mighty men… men of renown,” are associated with the unnatural unions described earlier. Their presence marks an era of supernatural deviation from God’s design.
The Nephilim’s reputation for strength and dominance likely contributed to the spread of violence and chaos on earth. Their role underscores the gravity of the corruption that was unfolding, both morally and physically.
God’s Grief Over Mankind
The chapter takes a dramatic turn in verses 5 and 6:
“And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.”
These verses convey profound theological implications. God’s sorrow is not regret in the human sense of a mistake but rather a divine expression of grief over man’s rebellion and moral ruin. The use of the word “repented” (from the Hebrew nacham) shows deep emotional pain and divine disappointment.
The earth, once declared “very good” (Genesis 1:31), had become corrupted by violence and wickedness. God’s justice demanded action, and thus, He pronounced judgment.
The Announcement of Divine Judgment
In Genesis 6:7, God declares His intention to destroy the living beings He had created:
“I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.”
This judgment reveals the holistic impact of human sin. The consequences extended beyond mankind to animals, reflecting the interconnectivity of creation. The fall had cosmic consequences, not just moral or spiritual ones.
God’s holiness and righteousness could not allow such evil to go unpunished. The severity of the coming flood was proportionate to the level of corruption on the earth.
Noah Finds Grace in God’s Eyes
Amidst the darkness of human depravity, one man stood out — Noah. Genesis 6:8 says:
“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.”
This verse is pivotal. Grace (chen in Hebrew) denotes unmerited favor. Noah did not earn God’s approval through perfection but by faith and obedience. This is the first time the word “grace” appears in Scripture, and it marks the beginning of God’s redemptive plan through one faithful individual.
The Character of Noah
Verse 9 presents a more detailed portrait of Noah:
“Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”
Three characteristics define Noah:
- Just – He lived righteously.
- Perfect in his generations – He was blameless compared to the corrupt people of his time.
- Walked with God – He had a relationship with God, similar to Enoch.
Noah’s example provides a stark contrast to the people around him. While the world indulged in wickedness, Noah remained faithful. His walk with God was not simply ceremonial — it involved consistent obedience and spiritual intimacy.
The Earth Was Filled with Violence
Genesis 6:11-12 emphasizes the extent of the earth’s corruption:
“The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.”
The repetition of these verses highlights the global nature of the problem. Humanity’s sin had defiled creation itself. Violence, oppression, and bloodshed were rampant. This corruption was not hidden; it was “before God,” meaning it was visible and offensive to Him.
God looked upon the earth and saw that “all flesh had corrupted his way.” The moral collapse was universal. None were exempt except Noah.
The Command to Build the Ark
In Genesis 6:13-21, God outlines His plan to save Noah and preserve life through the building of an ark:
“Make thee an ark of gopher wood…” (Genesis 6:14).
The ark was not a small boat but a massive vessel approximately 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high. It had three decks, many rooms, and was sealed with pitch to make it waterproof.
God gave Noah detailed specifications — its length, breadth, height, materials, and the number of stories. These instructions indicate that salvation required obedience to God’s design, not human innovation.
The ark would serve as a refuge not only for Noah and his family but also for animals “to keep them alive” during the flood (Genesis 6:19-20). The selection of animals, both male and female, ensured that life could continue after the flood.
This section showcases God’s mercy alongside His judgment. Although He would destroy the earth, He also provided a way of escape for the righteous.
God’s Covenant with Noah
Verse 18 introduces the first mention of a covenant in the Bible:
“But with thee will I establish my covenant…”
Though the specific terms of the covenant are revealed in Genesis 9, this promise assures Noah of divine protection. God’s covenant underscores a recurring theme: even in judgment, God preserves a remnant.
This promise would be the foundation for all future covenants — with Abraham, Israel, and ultimately through Christ. The God who judges also redeems.
Noah’s Obedience
The chapter ends with a simple yet powerful statement:
“Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.” (Genesis 6:22)
Noah’s obedience was complete. He didn’t question God’s plan or modify the instructions. He trusted God’s word, even when there was no rain in sight or precedent for a global flood. This kind of faith is later praised in Hebrews 11:7.
Noah’s example reveals what it means to walk in faith. His actions foreshadow the obedience of Christ, who also followed the will of the Father perfectly.
Theological Implications of Genesis 6
1. God’s Holiness and Justice
Genesis 6 emphasizes the seriousness of sin and God’s intolerance for corruption. He is not indifferent to human evil; His holiness demands judgment. The flood was not arbitrary but a righteous response to humanity’s wickedness.
2. God’s Grace and Mercy
Amid judgment, God extended grace. Noah’s preservation in the ark illustrates the principle that salvation is possible for those who trust and obey. This grace is seen throughout Scripture and culminates in Jesus Christ.
3. The Cost of Disobedience
The chapter warns of the consequences of rejecting God’s way. The corruption of creation stemmed from choices that deviated from God’s design. Whether it was the unions between the sons of God and daughters of men or the widespread violence, sin had a cost.
4. Obedience as a Mark of Faith
Noah’s life demonstrates that true faith results in obedience. His commitment to build the ark — despite societal ridicule or the absence of visible signs — is a model for believers today.
Conclusion
Genesis chapter 6 sets the stage for one of the most pivotal events in biblical history — the Flood. It portrays a world plunged into moral chaos and violence, evoking both the sorrow and justice of God. Yet, it also introduces hope through the figure of Noah, who found grace in God’s eyes and became a vessel of salvation.
This chapter serves as a mirror for modern society. In times of moral decay, God still seeks those who will walk with Him. And just as the ark provided refuge in a storm, God offers salvation through His covenant promises — fulfilled ultimately in Jesus Christ, the true Ark of salvation.
The enduring message of Genesis 6 is clear: God judges sin, but He saves the faithful.