Methusael is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Book of Genesis. He is a descendant of Cain, the firstborn son of Adam and Eve, who is infamous for committing the first murder by killing his brother Abel. Methusael is noted as the father of Lamech, a significant figure in the antediluvian period.

Genealogy and Lineage

Methusael is part of the lineage of Cain, which is detailed in Genesis 4. This lineage is distinct from the line of Seth, another son of Adam and Eve, which leads to Noah. The genealogy of Cain's descendants is brief but significant, as it highlights the development of early human civilization and culture. Methusael is the son of Mehujael and the father of Lamech, making him the great-grandson of Cain. The relevant passage in Genesis 4:18 states: "Now to Enoch was born Irad. And Irad was the father of Mehujael, and Mehujael was the father of Methusael, and Methusael was the father of Lamech."

Cultural and Historical Context

The genealogy of Cain's descendants, including Methusael, is often interpreted as a record of the early advancements in human society. This lineage is associated with the development of various skills and professions, as seen in the descendants of Lamech, Methusael's son. Lamech's children are credited with the founding of pastoralism, music, and metalworking, indicating a burgeoning complexity in human culture and technology.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Methusael's place in the genealogy of Cain serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the persistence of God's creation despite human transgression. The line of Cain, marked by violence and innovation, contrasts with the line of Seth, which is associated with righteousness and the eventual birth of Noah, who finds favor with God.

Methusael's mention in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of human history as depicted in the Scriptures. His role as the father of Lamech ties him to the unfolding account of humanity's early generations and their impact on the world.Genesis 4:18
And to Enoch was born Irad: and Irad begat Mehujael: and Mehujael begat Methusael: and Methusael begat Lamech.
Nave's Topical Index

How it is that Cain's Line Terminates in the Eighth Generation ...
... Mehujael begat; the sixth Lamech, whom Methusael begat, and ... son who was best liked
by his father would succeed ... during the lifetime and reign of Lamech, and may ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/city of god/chapter 20 how it is that.htm

Of the Two Fathers and Leaders who Sprang from one Progenitor.
... For we read, "Methusael begat Lamech. And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name
of the one was ... And Adah bare Jabal: he was the father of the shepherds that ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/city of god/chapter 17 of the two fathers.htm

The Life of Adam
... and Irad Mehujael, and he gat Methusael, and he ... name of his brother was Jubal, father
of singers ... Enoch, and Enoch Methuselah, and Methuselah Lamech, and Lamech ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the life of adam.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... "There are three that can bear record in heaven" (1 John 5:7-9). These three are
called "the Father, the Son [Word], and the Holy Spirit"; each of which is ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

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