Book Reviews : Genesis 1-11

A promise is a promise: God's covenantal relationship with animals

“…8 That this covenant is unilateral and dependent on God alone is a view shared by many biblical commentators, 9 and Clare Amos notes that this is highlighted by the fact that 'throughout 9.1-17 Noah remains completely mute, accentuating the one-sided obligation which God is placing himself under'. 10 This may also be observed by the fact that the famous 'rainbow sign' is a reminder not for God's creatures, but for God. Finally, that this covenant is one which is unconditional can be seen in the thrice repeated phrase 'never again', 11 as well as the explicit mention of this covenant being an 'everlasting covenant'.…”

“…20 However, such past examinations of covenant have often chosen specific covenants to focus on (usually the Sinai or Mosaic covenant) to the exclusion of others (such as Genesis 9). 21 Katherine Dell notes that 'the Noahic covenant has generally been regarded by scholars as less primary or significant than the other three [the Abrahamic, Mosaic, and Davidic]. For those concerned to write an Old Testament Theology, it has tended to take a back seat.'…”

“…36 Amos, discussing Cross' work, suggests that, in covenanting with both human and nonhuman animals, God was, 'in effect, "adopting" the other party as kin, and agreeing to accept the mutual obligations inherent in kinship'. 37 Thus, through the covenant, God became (using Cross' term) the Divine Kinsman. 38 Cross is not alone in his presentation of covenant as closely related to familial ties.…”

“…The tension between the relational focus of covenant and the environmental focus of stewardship -and the significantly different implications these foci have for theological ethics -are drawn out and reflected upon in the course of answering this question. 10 This may also be observed by the fact that the famous 'rainbow sign' is a reminder not for God's creatures, but for God. The first of these can be found in Genesis 9, 3 which is the first time God enacts a covenant with his creatures.…”