Abstract
While the stories of the so-called Primeval History (Gen. 1-11) often appear repetitious, in fact they invariably advance the theme(s) significantly. Thus, while the Flood narrative might suggest a reiteration of the theme of human disobedience, it actually offers significant variations. The introductory and concluding episodes (6.1-4 and 9.20-27), which may function like a chiasmus, suggest that illicit relationships lead inevitably to that violence which destroys creation. Specifically, the activities of the 'sons of God' mirror those of Ham with the drunken Noah, or his wife. Even perfect human obedience (Noah), which it was carlier implied might have ensured humanity's tenure in Eden, provides insufficient protection against such disorder. Hence the necessity of first covenant and then Law/Torah as structures to ensure not only the survival of creation, but to channel human violence elsewhere, and to allow humanity full access to God.
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