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Bible Studies/biblical meaning of replenish
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Question
I am hoping you can answer this question for me as I have been asking people for about a year now. I use the KJV bible and am really curious as to why God told Adam and Eve to go forth and "replenish" the earth. If they were the beginning, how can they replenish something that wasn't there to start with? If you replenish something, you are building it back up to what it was to start with. Thanks.
Hi Brenda,
You ask a good question. The English word, "replenish," means "to fill again." This, as you rightly noted, implies that the earth was filled beforehand.
However, this is a poor translation. The Hebrew word used in Genesis 1:28 and Genesis 9:1 is "mala," and means, "to fill." Other translations clarify the issue by translating the word "fill" rather than "replenish," as the KJV does.
Scott
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Scott Talbot
Expertise
I have studied the Bible and Bible-related topics since the time I was very young. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Bible, and a Master of Divinity degree. I enjoy delving into deep theological issues and always enjoy a healthy debate. But more importantly, I like working with people and helping them to find the answers that they are looking for. And I am convinced that these answers are available in the Bible.
Experience
By the grace and mercy of God, I have been saved, born again, adopted into the family of God. God has given me a love for the Bible, and for Bible-related subjects. In addition, He has blessed me with ongoing training in the Scriptures, from my youth on up. The more I learn about God through His Word, the more I want to share!
Organizations
Campus Crusade for Christ, Grace Church at Willow Valley
Education/Credentials
Pillsbury Baptist Bible College - B.S. Bible & Pastorology; Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary - M.Div.
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