8:20–9:17 The Noahic covenant is established. Although Noah was already in covenant relationship with God (6:18 note), the Lord graciously promises with a solemn covenant oath never again to destroy the earth by flood. As with other biblical covenants, the covenant promise (8:21, 22; 9:11) is accompanied by covenant mandates or stipulations (9:1–7) and the giving of a covenant sign (9:12–17).