Genesis 4:18 - To Enoch was born Irad. Irad became the father of Mehujael. Mehujael became the father of Methushael. Methushael became the father of Lamech.

Generated Verse: Genesis 4:18

What does "Genesis 4:18" mean?


This verse, Genesis 4:18, is part of a genealogy tracing the descendants of Cain. It simply lists a line of fathers and sons:

Enoch had a son named Irad.
Irad had a son named Mehujael.
Mehujael had a son named Methushael.
Methushael had a son named Lamech.

Significance:

Establishing Lineage: Its primary function is to trace the lineage of Cain's descendants. Genealogies were important in ancient cultures for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social standing.
Foreshadowing: The lineage culminates in Lamech, who, in the next verses, is depicted as a violent and boastful man. This foreshadows the increasing wickedness of Cain's line.
Contrast: It contrasts with the genealogy of Seth in Genesis 5, which traces a line of people more aligned with God's intentions. This contrast highlights the diverging paths of humanity after the Fall.
Remembering Names: The naming of each individual in the verse is, in a way, remembering them. Each name once meant something to a family or individual.

In essence, the verse is a simple statement of ancestry, but within the context of Genesis, it contributes to the broader narrative of human descent and the growing separation between those who follow God and those who don't.

What categories does "Genesis 4:18" have?