The rainbow is a biblical symbol of God’s covenant with humanity, specifically His promise never to destroy the earth again with a flood. It is a sign of mercy, divine faithfulness, and the reliability of God’s Word.
The first and foundational reference is in Genesis 9:12–15. After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah and all living creatures:
“This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you… I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth… the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.”
This was not a conditional covenant but an unconditional one. The rainbow stands as a visual reminder to God and man that He will preserve the earth despite mankind’s continued sinfulness.
The Hebrew word used here is “qesheth,” which also means “bow,” as in a weapon. Some scholars have noted the significance of the bow being set “in the cloud” as a disarmed weapon, no longer pointed at man but hung in peace.
The rainbow reappears in Revelation, but in a heavenly context. Revelation 4:3 describes a rainbow around God’s throne:
“And there was a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald.”
This shows that the covenant is not forgotten, even in the throne room of heaven. God’s mercy remains central to His character.
Revelation 10:1 also describes a mighty angel:
“Clothed with a cloud, and a rainbow was on his head…”
The continued presence of the rainbow in prophetic vision reminds us that even amid judgment, God remains true to His promises.
The rainbow is not merely a natural phenomenon, it is a divine seal of mercy and restraint. In a world worthy of judgment, the rainbow assures us that God is patient, faithful, and in control.
