Ca-i'nan
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Ca-i'nan, also spelled Kenan, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Book of Genesis. He is a descendant of Adam and is part of the lineage leading to Noah. Ca-i'nan is noted for his place in the antediluvian patriarchal line, which is significant in tracing the ancestry of key biblical figures.

Genealogical Context

Ca-i'nan is introduced in Genesis 5, which provides a detailed genealogy from Adam to Noah. According to Genesis 5:9-14 , "When Enosh was 90 years old, he became the father of Kenan. And after he had become the father of Kenan, Enosh lived 815 years and had other sons and daughters. So Enosh lived a total of 905 years, and then he died. When Kenan was 70 years old, he became the father of Mahalalel. And after he had become the father of Mahalalel, Kenan lived 840 years and had other sons and daughters. So Kenan lived a total of 910 years, and then he died."

This passage highlights Ca-i'nan's role as the son of Enosh and the father of Mahalalel, placing him in the fourth generation from Adam. His lifespan, as recorded, is 910 years, which is consistent with the long lifespans attributed to the antediluvian patriarchs.

Theological Significance

Ca-i'nan's inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the continuity of God's creation and the unfolding of His plan through successive generations. The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's covenantal faithfulness. Each name in the lineage, including Ca-i'nan, represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history, leading ultimately to the coming of Jesus Christ.

New Testament Reference

Ca-i'nan is also mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Luke. Luke 3:37 lists him as "the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God." This inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the importance of Ca-i'nan's place in the biblical narrative, connecting the Old Testament patriarchs to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ.

Historical and Cultural Context

The genealogies in Genesis, including the mention of Ca-i'nan, reflect the ancient Near Eastern practice of recording family lines to establish identity, heritage, and legitimacy. These records were crucial for maintaining tribal and familial connections, especially in a culture where oral tradition played a significant role in preserving history.

Interpretative Considerations

From a conservative Christian perspective, the genealogies are viewed as literal historical accounts that affirm the accuracy and reliability of Scripture. Ca-i'nan's life and lineage are seen as integral to understanding the unfolding of God's purposes throughout biblical history. His mention in both the Old and New Testaments serves as a testament to the unity and coherence of the biblical narrative.

In summary, Ca-i'nan is a key figure in the biblical genealogies, representing the continuity of God's creation and covenantal promises. His life, as recorded in Scripture, contributes to the broader narrative of redemption that culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Concordance
Ca-i'nan (2 Occurrences)

Luke 3:36
the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech,
(See RSV)

Luke 3:37
the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalaleel, the son of Cainan,
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Ca-i'nan (2 Occurrences)
Ca-i'nan. Cainan, Ca-i'nan. Cain's . Multi-Version Concordance
Ca-i'nan (2 Occurrences). Luke 3:36 the son of Cainan, the son of ...
/c/ca-i'nan.htm - 6k

Cainan (8 Occurrences)

/c/cainan.htm - 9k

Cain's (3 Occurrences)

/c/cain's.htm - 7k

Resources
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What is the gospel of Barnabas? | GotQuestions.org

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