1177. He was a mighty one in the earth. That this signifies that such a religion prevailed in the church, may be seen from what presently follows. That the “earth” is the church has been shown before n. 620, 636, 662, and elsewhere).

619. Verse 11. And the earth was corrupt before God; and the earth was filled with violence. By the “earth” is signified the race mentioned before. It is said to be “corrupt” on account of their dreadful persuasions; and to be “filled with violence” on account of their foul cupidities. Here and in the following verses of this chapter it is said “God” because there was now no church.