Genesis 5:3 - Adam lived one hundred thirty years, and became the father of a son in his own likeness, after his image, and named him Seth.

Generated Verse: Genesis 5:3

What does "Genesis 5:3" mean?


This verse, Genesis 5:3, is a key verse in the genealogical account of Adam's descendants and carries a significant message:

"Adam lived one hundred thirty years..." This establishes the age at which Adam fathered his son Seth. It's a precise detail, characteristic of genealogical records.

"...and became the father of a son..." This states the fact of Seth's birth.

"...in his own likeness, after his image..." This is the most important and often discussed part of the verse. It contrasts with Genesis 1:26-27, where God created Adam "in his own image, in the likeness of God." Seth, however, is described as being in Adam's likeness. This signifies several things:

Inherited Nature: Seth inherited Adam's fallen nature. Because of Adam's sin in the Garden of Eden, humanity is no longer a perfect reflection of God's image. Seth, being Adam's descendant, inherited that corrupted image, including mortality and the propensity to sin. In other words, just as a child typically resembles their parents physically and mentally, Seth resembled Adam in his character and condition.
Lineage and Succession: The phrase emphasizes that Seth is indeed Adam's legitimate son and heir. It establishes the lineage from Adam through Seth, which is vital for the narrative that follows. This line will eventually lead to Noah and the repopulation of the earth after the flood.
Humanity's Condition: It highlights the ongoing effect of the Fall. Humanity, through Adam, is separated from the original divine image and now reproduces in a state of separation. The verse serves as a poignant reminder that humans are not perfect reflections of God.

"...and named him Seth." Naming conventions in the Bible often hold symbolic meaning. The name "Seth" means "appointed" or "placed." Some interpret this as a recognition that God had appointed or placed Seth as a replacement for Abel, who had been murdered by Cain. Seth's birth offers a continuation of the righteous lineage.

In summary, Genesis 5:3 is not merely a statement of biological fact; it's a theological declaration. It marks the continuation of humanity after the expulsion from Eden but emphasizes that subsequent generations inherit Adam's fallen nature rather than the original image of God. It also signifies the importance of Seth's line in the unfolding narrative of salvation history.

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