Topical Encyclopedia Name Meaning: The name Methushelah (also spelled Methuselah) is often interpreted to mean "man of the dart" or "man of the javelin." Some scholars suggest it could also mean "when he dies, it shall be sent," possibly alluding to the timing of the Flood.Biblical References: Methushelah is a prominent figure in the genealogies of the antediluvian patriarchs. He is mentioned in the following passages: · Genesis 5:21-27 : "When Enoch was 65 years old, he became the father of Methuselah. And after he had become the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters. So Enoch lived a total of 365 years. Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God took him away. When Methuselah was 187 years old, he became the father of Lamech. And after he had become the father of Lamech, Methuselah lived 782 years and had other sons and daughters. So Methuselah lived a total of 969 years, and then he died." · 1 Chronicles 1:3 : Methuselah is listed in the genealogical records, affirming his place in the lineage from Adam to Noah. · Luke 3:37 : Methuselah is included in the genealogy of Jesus, tracing the lineage from Adam through Noah. Significance: Methushelah is renowned for being the longest-lived human recorded in the Bible, reaching the age of 969 years. His lifespan is often seen as a testament to the longevity of the antediluvian patriarchs, a period characterized by extended lifespans before the Flood. Methushelah's life overlaps with several key biblical figures, including Adam, Noah, and his father Enoch, who "walked with God" and was taken by God without experiencing death. Theological Implications: Methushelah's long life is sometimes interpreted as a symbol of God's patience and mercy. According to some interpretations, Methushelah's death coincides with the year of the Flood, suggesting that his life was a period of grace before God's judgment on a sinful world. This interpretation aligns with the understanding of God's character as both just and merciful, providing ample time for repentance before enacting judgment. Cultural Impact: Methushelah's name has become synonymous with longevity and is often used in literature and popular culture to denote extreme old age. His life serves as a reminder of the ancient world described in Genesis and the continuity of God's plan through successive generations leading to the fulfillment of His promises. Genealogical Context: Methushelah is the son of Enoch and the grandfather of Noah, placing him in a critical position within the biblical narrative. His lineage is significant in tracing the descent from Adam to the post-Flood world, underscoring the continuity of God's covenantal promises through the line of Seth. Historical Context: The account of Methushelah is set in the pre-Flood era, a time characterized by increasing human wickedness and the eventual divine decision to cleanse the earth through the Flood. Methushelah's life spans this period, bridging the gap between the creation narrative and the account of Noah, who would become the progenitor of the post-Flood human race. Concordance Methushelah (6 Occurrences)Genesis 5:21 Genesis 5:22 Genesis 5:25 Genesis 5:26 Genesis 5:27 1 Chronicles 1:3 Thesaurus Methushelah (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Methushelah (6 Occurrences). Genesis 5:21 And Enoch lived sixty-five years, and begot Methushelah. (DBY). ... /m/methushelah.htm - 7k Begot (119 Occurrences) Lemech (9 Occurrences) Begotten (77 Occurrences) Meting (3 Occurrences) Me-thu'sha-el (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |