The Descendants of Adam 1This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, He made him in His own likeness. 2Male and female He created them,a and He blessed them. And in the day they were created, He called them “man.”b 3When Adam was 130 years old, he had a son in his own likeness, after his own image; and he named him Seth. 4And after he had become the father of Seth, Adam lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters. 5So Adam lived a total of 930 years, and then he died. 6When Seth was 105 years old, he became the father of Enosh. 7And after he had become the father of Enosh, Seth lived 807 years and had other sons and daughters. 8So Seth lived a total of 912 years, and then he died. 9When Enosh was 90 years old, he became the father of Kenan. 10And after he had become the father of Kenan, Enosh lived 815 years and had other sons and daughters. 11So Enosh lived a total of 905 years, and then he died. 12When Kenan was 70 years old, he became the father of Mahalalel. 13And after he had become the father of Mahalalel, Kenan lived 840 years and had other sons and daughters. 14So Kenan lived a total of 910 years, and then he died. 15When Mahalalel was 65 years old, he became the father of Jared. 16And after he had become the father of Jared, Mahalalel lived 830 years and had other sons and daughters. 17So Mahalalel lived a total of 895 years, and then he died. God Takes Up Enoch 18When Jared was 162 years old, he became the father of Enoch. 19And after he had become the father of Enoch, Jared lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters. 20So Jared lived a total of 962 years, and then he died. 21When Enoch was 65 years old, he became the father of Methuselah. 22And after he had become the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with Godc 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23So Enoch lived a total of 365 years. 24Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God had taken him away.d From Methuselah to Noah 25When Methuselah was 187 years old, he became the father of Lamech. 26And after he had become the father of Lamech, Methuselah lived 782 years and had other sons and daughters. 27So Methuselah lived a total of 969 years, and then he died. 28When Lamech was 182 years old, he had a son. 29And he named him Noah,e saying, “May this one comfort us in the labor and toil of our hands caused by the ground that the LORD has cursed.” 30And after he had become the father of Noah, Lamech lived 595 years and had other sons and daughters. 31So Lamech lived a total of 777 years, and then he died. 32After Noah was 500 years old, he became the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Footnotes: 2 a Cited in Matthew 19:4 and Mark 10:6 2 b Hebrew Adam 22 c LXX pleased God; also in verse 24 24 d LXX and he was not found, because God had taken him away; cited in Hebrews 11:5 29 e Noah sounds like the Hebrew for rest or comfort. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Genesis 5 Summary The Descendants of AdamVerses 1–2 – The Book of Adam Verses 3–5 – Adam to Seth Verses 6–8 – Seth to Enosh Verses 9–11 – Enosh to Kenan Verses 12–14 – Kenan to Mahalalel Verses 15–17 – Mahalalel to Jared Verses 18–20 – Jared to Enoch Verses 21–24 – Enoch Walks with God Verses 25–27 – Methuselah to Lamech Verses 28–31 – Lamech to Noah Verse 32 – Noah’s Three Sons The fifth chapter of Genesis presents a fascinating chronicle of time, outlining the lineage from Adam to Noah. The chapter encapsulates the divinely appointed lives, tracing an extraordinary chain of generations and the remarkably prolonged lifespans. Historical Setting and Antediluvian Culture Genesis 5 bridges the fall in Eden (Genesis 3) and the violence of the Flood (Genesis 6). People are living in a world still fresh from creation but already marred by sin. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and city-building (see Genesis 4:17–22) are under way, yet lifespans are extraordinary, a reminder of a less-damaged creation. The Purpose of Genealogies 1. Line of Promise: Traces the seed promised in Genesis 3:15, leading ultimately to Christ (Luke 3:36-38). 2. Historical Anchor: Provides dates and ages, rooting biblical history in time. 3. Moral Emphasis: The drumbeat “and he died” underscores the certainty of death after the fall (Romans 5:12). 4. Contrast with Cain’s Line: Seth’s genealogy centers on worship and walking with God; Cain’s line (Genesis 4) centers on human achievement without reference to God. Longevity and Lifespans • Long ages reflect early creation conditions—minimal genetic decay, a protective environment, and God’s original design for vitality. • After the Flood, lifespans drop sharply (Genesis 11), showing a real shift in world conditions. • Each man’s years are summed, driving home both God’s blessing of life and the curse of eventual death. Echoes in the New Testament • Hebrews 11:5 praises Enoch’s faith: “By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death.” • Jude 14-15 cites Enoch’s prophecy against ungodliness, tying Genesis 5 to end-time judgment themes. • 2 Peter 2:5 calls Noah “a preacher of righteousness,” linking Genesis 5-6 to gospel proclamation. • Luke 3:36-38 and 1 Chronicles 1 repeat the genealogy, affirming its historical trustworthiness. Enoch – A Walk that Pleased God Genesis 5:24: “Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God had taken him away.” • Walked, not merely believed—his daily life matched his faith. • One of only two men (the other is Elijah, 2 Kings 2:11) who bypass death, foreshadowing the believer’s hope of resurrection and rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:17). • His 365-year lifespan mirrors the number of days in a solar year—a poetic hint of completeness. The Meaning of the Names • Adam – “Man” • Seth – “Appointed” • Enosh – “Mortal” • Kenan – “Possession” • Mahalalel – “Praise of God” • Jared – “Descent” • Enoch – “Dedicated” • Methuselah – Traditionally “When he dies it shall be sent,” fitting the Flood arriving the year he dies. • Lamech – “Powerful” or “Conqueror” • Noah – “Rest/Comfort” Through these names a sentence emerges: “Man is appointed mortal sorrow; the blessed God shall come down, teaching that His death shall bring the despairing rest.” While not explicit in the text, the pattern is a fascinating hint of the gospel. Chronology from Creation to the Flood Adding the ages at fatherhood from Adam to Noah totals 1,556 years. Because Methuselah dies the year the Flood begins, the genealogies give a precise timeline showing God’s long patience before judgment. Lamech’s Prophecy over Noah Genesis 5:29: “May this one comfort us in the labor and toil of our hands caused by the ground that the LORD has cursed.” • Looks back to the curse (Genesis 3:17). • Looks forward to Noah’s role in a fresh start for humanity after the Flood. • Anticipates ultimate comfort in Christ, who removes the curse (Galatians 3:13). Archaeological Notes on Early Writing and Memory No direct artifacts from antediluvian times exist, but: • Ancient Near Eastern king lists (e.g., Sumerian King List) also record extraordinary lifespans, echoing Genesis 5. • Early Mesopotamian tablets show organized record-keeping, supporting Genesis’s claim to very ancient genealogical books (“This is the book of the generations of Adam,” Genesis 5:1). The Repetition of “And He Died” Eight times the refrain tolls like a bell. Even Methuselah—the longest-lived man—dies. Only Enoch breaks the pattern, highlighting hope beyond death. Patterns and Literary Rhythm Each entry follows a five-part cadence: name, age at first son, years lived after, total years, and death notice. The steady pattern reinforces God’s order and the certainty of His word. Practical Life Lessons • Legacy Matters: Each generation influences the next. Walk with God so your line carries faith forward. • Life Is Brief: Even 900 years end with a breath; invest in what outlasts death. • God Keeps Records: Names and years show He values individuals; no one is forgotten. • Walk, Don’t Just Talk: Enoch’s example teaches that a steady daily walk with God is possible even in a corrupt world. Key Scripture Cross-References • Genesis 3:17 – Curse on the ground • Romans 5:12 – Death through sin • Hebrews 11:5 – Enoch’s faith • 1 Thessalonians 4:17 – Caught up together • 2 Peter 2:5 – Noah’s preaching • Luke 3:36-38 – Genealogy of Jesus Genesis 5 quietly states birth dates and death dates, yet behind the numbers beats a account of grace, judgment, and hope that moves the Bible’s grand narrative toward the rescue to come. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 11:5-6Enoch's faith is highlighted in the Hall of Faith, emphasizing the importance of faith in pleasing God. Romans 5:12-21 This passage discusses the entrance of sin through Adam and the gift of grace through Jesus Christ, connecting the themes of Genesis 5 to the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. This verse ties the genealogy of Adam to the resurrection hope in Christ. Teaching Points The Lineage of AdamGenesis 5:1-2 begins by reiterating the creation of man in God's likeness, emphasizing the divine image in humanity. This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, He made him in His own likeness. Male and female He created them, and He blessed them. And in the day they were created, He called them 'man.' The Reality of Death The repeated phrase and then he died underscores the consequence of sin introduced in Genesis 3. Despite long lifespans, death was inevitable, reminding us of the mortality that sin brings. Enoch's Walk with God Enoch stands out in this genealogy. Genesis 5:24 states, Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God took him away. Enoch's life exemplifies a deep, personal relationship with God, resulting in his being taken directly to heaven. The Hope of Noah Lamech names his son Noah, saying, He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the LORD has cursed (Genesis 5:29). Noah's name and role foreshadow the coming relief and salvation through the flood narrative. Practical Applications Reflect on Your LegacyConsider the spiritual legacy you are building. How are you impacting future generations with your faith and actions? Pursue a Walk with God Like Enoch, strive for a close, daily walk with God. Prioritize your relationship with Him above all else. Acknowledge the Reality of Sin and Death Recognize the seriousness of sin and its consequences, but also the hope we have in Christ, who conquered death. Find Comfort in God's Promises Just as Noah was a symbol of hope, find comfort in the promises of God, knowing that He is faithful to His word. People 1. AdamAdam is the first human created by God, as described in Genesis. His name in Hebrew, אָדָם ('Adam), means "man" or "mankind." He is the father of Seth and lived 930 years. 2. Seth Seth is Adam's son, born after the death of Abel. His name in Hebrew, שֵׁת (Shet), means "appointed" or "placed." Seth lived 912 years. 3. Enosh Enosh is the son of Seth. His name in Hebrew, אֱנוֹשׁ (Enosh), means "man" or "mortal." He lived 905 years. 4. Kenan Kenan, also spelled Cainan, is the son of Enosh. His name in Hebrew, קֵינָן (Qeynan), is of uncertain meaning but is often associated with "possession" or "sorrow." He lived 910 years. 5. Mahalalel Mahalalel is the son of Kenan. His name in Hebrew, מַהֲלַלְאֵל (Mahalal'el), means "praise of God." He lived 895 years. 6. Jared Jared is the son of Mahalalel. His name in Hebrew, יֶרֶד (Yered), means "descent" or "to descend." He lived 962 years. 7. Enoch Enoch is the son of Jared. His name in Hebrew, חֲנוֹךְ (Chanokh), means "dedicated" or "initiated." Enoch is notable for being taken by God, as he "walked with God" and did not die. He lived 365 years. 8. Methuselah Methuselah is the son of Enoch. His name in Hebrew, מְתוּשֶׁלַח (Methushelach), is often interpreted as "man of the dart" or "his death shall bring." He is known for being the longest-lived person in the Bible, living 969 years. 9. Lamech Lamech is the son of Methuselah. His name in Hebrew, לֶמֶךְ (Lemek), is of uncertain meaning. He lived 777 years and is the father of Noah. 10. Noah Noah is the son of Lamech. His name in Hebrew, נֹחַ (Noach), means "rest" or "comfort." He is known for building the ark and surviving the Flood. Noah lived 950 years. Places 1. EdenWhile not mentioned directly in Genesis 5, Eden is the initial setting for humanity, where Adam and Eve lived before the Fall. The Hebrew word for Eden (עֵדֶן, 'Eden') suggests a place of delight or pleasure. 2. The Land of Nod Although not in Genesis 5, this is where Cain settled after being banished from Eden (Genesis 4:16). The Hebrew word "Nod" (נוֹד) means "wandering," indicating a place of exile and restlessness. 3. The Earth Throughout Genesis 5, the term "the earth" is used to describe the broader setting where humanity lived and multiplied. The Hebrew word for earth is "erets" (אֶרֶץ), which can mean land, country, or the whole world. Events 1. Introduction to the Generations of AdamThe chapter begins by stating, "This is the book of the generations of Adam" (Genesis 5:1). It emphasizes the creation of man in the likeness of God, referring back to Genesis 1:26-27, where "likeness" (Hebrew: דְּמוּת, demut) signifies the image and resemblance to God. 2. Creation of Male and Female The text reiterates that God created them male and female, and He blessed them and named them "Man" (Genesis 5:2). The Hebrew word for "Man" is אָדָם (adam), which is also used as the name for the first human. 3. Adam's Descendants Adam lived 130 years and fathered a son in his own likeness, after his image, and named him Seth (Genesis 5:3). This mirrors the language of being made in God's image, highlighting the continuation of God's likeness through generations. 4. Lifespan of Adam Adam lived a total of 930 years before he died (Genesis 5:5). The long lifespans in this chapter are a notable feature, reflecting the early generations' proximity to creation. 5. Genealogy from Seth to Noah The chapter continues with the genealogy, listing the descendants from Seth to Noah. Each entry follows a pattern: the age at which the patriarch fathers his named son, the additional years he lives, and his total lifespan. This includes Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, and Lamech (Genesis 5:6-31). 6. Enoch's Walk with God Enoch is highlighted for his unique relationship with God. "Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God took him away" (Genesis 5:24). The Hebrew verb for "walked" (הָלַךְ, halak) implies a continuous, intimate relationship with God, and Enoch's departure is seen as a divine act. 7. Birth of Noah Lamech, at 182 years old, fathers a son named Noah, saying, "He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the LORD has cursed" (Genesis 5:29). The name "Noah" (נֹחַ, Noach) is related to the Hebrew word for "comfort" or "rest" (נָחַם, nacham). 8. Lifespan of Lamech and Noah Lamech lived 777 years before he died (Genesis 5:31). Noah was 500 years old when he fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth (Genesis 5:32), setting the stage for the narrative of the flood in the subsequent chapters. Lessons from Genesis 5 1. The Legacy of Faithfulness 2. The Importance of Generations 3. The Reality of Mortality 4. The Hope of Eternal Life 5. The Power of a Godly Heritage 6. The Significance of Names 7. The Continuity of God's Plan 8. The Call to Walk with God 9. The Reminder of God's Faithfulness 10. The Invitation to Reflect on Our Lives Topics 1. The Generations of AdamGenesis 5 begins with a summary of the creation of mankind, emphasizing that God created humans in His likeness. The Hebrew word for "likeness" is "דְּמוּת" (demut), which implies a resemblance or model. This sets the stage for the genealogical record that follows. 2. The Lineage from Adam to Seth The chapter details the descendants of Adam, starting with Seth. Adam lived 130 years before fathering Seth, and the text notes that Seth was born in Adam's likeness and image, echoing the creation narrative. This highlights the continuation of God's image through the generations. 3. The Lifespans of the Patriarchs A significant feature of Genesis 5 is the recording of the long lifespans of the patriarchs. For example, Adam lived 930 years. The Hebrew term "שָׁנָה" (shanah) is used for "year," indicating a full cycle of seasons, which underscores the remarkable longevity of these early figures. 4. The Birth of Enosh and the Invocation of the LORD Seth's son, Enosh, is noted, and it is during his time that people began to call upon the name of the LORD. This marks a significant spiritual development in human history, suggesting a formalization of worship and recognition of God's sovereignty. 5. The Lineage from Enosh to Enoch The genealogy continues with the descendants of Enosh, including Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, and Enoch. Each patriarch's age at the birth of their first son and their total lifespan is recorded, emphasizing the continuity of the line. 6. The Unique Account of Enoch Enoch's account is distinct because he "walked with God" and was taken by God, rather than experiencing death. The Hebrew word "לָקַח" (laqach) means "to take" or "to seize," indicating a divine intervention. This is often interpreted as Enoch being taken to heaven, highlighting his righteousness. 7. The Lineage from Methuselah to Lamech The genealogy proceeds with Methuselah, who is noted for having the longest lifespan recorded in the Bible at 969 years. His son, Lamech, continues the line leading to Noah. 8. The Birth of Noah and the Prophecy of Rest Lamech names his son Noah, saying, "He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the LORD has cursed." The name Noah is derived from the Hebrew "נֹחַ" (Noach), meaning "rest" or "comfort," foreshadowing Noah's future role in God's plan. 9. The Conclusion of the Genealogy The chapter concludes with the birth of Noah's three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This sets the stage for the narrative of the flood and the continuation of humanity through Noah's family. Themes 1. The Lineage of AdamGenesis 5 provides a genealogical record from Adam to Noah, emphasizing the continuity of God's creation through generations. The chapter begins with, "This is the book of the generations of Adam" (Genesis 5:1), highlighting the importance of ancestry and heritage in the biblical narrative. 2. The Image of God The theme of humanity being created in the image of God is reiterated: "When God created man, He made him in the likeness of God" (Genesis 5:1). This reflects the Hebrew term "tselem" (צֶלֶם), meaning image or likeness, underscoring the divine imprint on humanity. 3. The Reality of Mortality The repeated phrase "and then he died" (e.g., Genesis 5:5, 8, 11) underscores the reality of human mortality as a consequence of the Fall. This theme is a reminder of the transient nature of life and the fulfillment of God's word regarding death as a result of sin. 4. The Longevity of Early Humans The chapter records the long lifespans of early humans, such as Methuselah living 969 years (Genesis 5:27). This theme highlights the unique conditions of the pre-flood world and the gradual decline in human longevity post-flood. 5. The Hope of Redemption The birth of Noah introduces a theme of hope and redemption. Lamech names his son Noah, saying, "He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the LORD has cursed" (Genesis 5:29). The Hebrew name "Noah" (נֹחַ) is related to the word for comfort or rest, indicating a future hope for relief from the curse. 6. The Faithfulness of God The genealogical record demonstrates God's faithfulness in preserving a lineage through which His promises would be fulfilled. Despite human sinfulness, God maintains a remnant, culminating in Noah, who finds favor in God's eyes (Genesis 6:8). Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness Thank God for His faithfulness throughout generations and His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. Desire for a Closer Walk with God Hope in Christ's Salvation Impact on Future Generations Answering Tough Questions 1. How is it scientifically possible for Adam to have lived 930 years (Genesis 5:5)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of God creating mankind in His own image and likeness? 2. Why do you think the lifespans in these early generations were extraordinarily long? 3. How does the lineage reflect on the importance of family and genealogy in biblical times? 4. What is unique about Enoch's life and what could "walking with God" mean? 5. How do Lamech's words about Noah reveal the state of the world and humanity's relationship with the earth at that time? 6. Why do you think the lineage from Adam to Noah is included in Genesis? What purpose does it serve? 7. How do these genealogies impact your understanding of the biblical narrative? 8. In what ways might these generations reflect the unfolding of God's divine plan? 9. What does Lamech's hope for Noah tell us about the struggles people were facing at the time? 10. How does the narrative of these generations influence our understanding of human longevity and mortality? 11. How can we relate this ancient family tree to our understanding of families today? 12. How does Enoch's relationship with God differ from others in this chapter, and what can we learn from it? 13. What might the genealogical listing imply about the importance of legacy in biblical times? 14. In what ways could the long lives of the patriarchs affect their relationship with God and their descendants? 15. What is the importance of naming in these passages, and how does it reflect the characters' relationships with God? 16. How does the phrase "and then he died" repeated after the account of each patriarch's life remind us of human mortality? 17. In the present day, how can we carry the lessons from the blessings and curses experienced by these generations? 18. What does it mean to walk with God in our contemporary society, following the example of Enoch? 19. How does the hope embodied in Noah's name inspire us to have faith in God during challenging times? 20. In what ways does understanding our spiritual heritage impact our faith journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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