Genesis 5:1

KJV

¶ This [is] the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;

KJV (with Strong's)

This {H2088} is the book {H5612} of the generations {H8435} of Adam {H121}. In the day {H3117} that God {H430} created {H1254} man {H120}, in the likeness {H1823} of God {H430} made {H6213} he him;

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is the genealogy of Adam. On the day that God created man he made him in the likeness of God;

Berean Standard Bible

This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, He made him in His own likeness.

American Standard Version

This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 5:1 serves as a pivotal textual marker, formally introducing "the book of the generations of Adam," a foundational declaration that powerfully reiterates humanity's divine origin and inherent dignity. This verse re-establishes that God created man "in the likeness of God," thereby setting the stage for the meticulous genealogical record that traces the unfolding lineage through which God's redemptive plan will progressively manifest throughout human history. It bridges the foundational creation narrative with the subsequent account of humanity's development, affirming God's enduring purpose for His image-bearers despite the fall.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 5:1 marks a significant structural transition within the book of Genesis, initiating the second of ten *toledoth* (generations) sections that meticulously organize its historical and theological flow. Following the majestic accounts of creation in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account") and [Genesis 2](/genesis/2 "Genesis 2 - The Creation of Man and Woman"), the tragic narrative of the fall of humanity in [Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "The Fall of Humanity"), and the subsequent stories of Cain and Abel in [Genesis 4](/genesis/4 "The Story of Cain and Abel"), Genesis 5:1 pivots from broader narrative to a focused genealogical record. It functions as a formal heading, signaling a shift to a detailed historical account of Adam’s descendants. This immediate re-emphasis on humanity's creation in God's image, first described in [Genesis 1:26-27](/genesis/1-26-27 "God's Creation of Humanity in His Image"), serves to underscore the enduring significance of the *imago Dei* even after the introduction of sin and death.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, genealogies were far more than mere lists of names; they served crucial socio-religious functions. They established legitimacy for rulers, priestly lines, and tribal claims, traced land rights, and preserved the identity and continuity of a people. Unlike the often mythical or deified genealogies found in surrounding cultures, the biblical *toledoth* present a linear, historical progression, emphasizing the real, historical nature of Adam and his descendants. This meticulous recording highlights the unique Israelite understanding of history as divinely ordered and purposeful, contrasting sharply with cyclical or chaotic worldviews. The concept of "generations" also speaks to the importance of familial and communal identity within a patriarchal society, where lineage was the primary means of transmitting heritage, promises, and responsibilities.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 5:1 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis and beyond. Foremost is the **Enduring *Imago Dei***, reiterating that humanity, despite the fall in [Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "The Fall of Humanity"), retains the divine likeness, which forms the basis for human dignity and value. This verse also highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Purpose in History**, demonstrating God's active involvement in guiding and preserving a specific lineage through which His redemptive plan will unfold. The introduction of the *toledoth* formula underscores the **Historicity and Continuity of God's Plan**, emphasizing that the biblical narrative is rooted in real events and real people, from Adam to the patriarchs, leading eventually to the nation of Israel and ultimately to Christ. It also subtly introduces the theme of **Life and Death**, as the subsequent genealogy will meticulously record the lifespan and death of each patriarch, a stark reminder of the consequences of the fall, yet within the context of God's ongoing work.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **book (Hebrew, _çêpher'_):** From H5612. Properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book; bill, book, evidence, [idiom] learn(-ed) (-ing), letter, register, scroll. In Genesis 5:1, "book" (çêpher) signifies an authoritative, written record or register, emphasizing the deliberate and historical nature of the account that follows. It is not a casual recounting but a formal, documented lineage.
* **generations (Hebrew, _tôwlᵉdâh'_):** From H8435. (plural only) descent, i.e. family; (figuratively) history; birth, generations. This term, *toledoth*, is a crucial structural marker in Genesis, appearing ten times to introduce major sections. It denotes an "account of," "history of," or "descendants of," indicating a new phase in the narrative focusing on the progeny and historical development stemming from a particular individual or event. Here, it marks the detailed history of Adam's lineage.
* **created (Hebrew, _bârâʼ'_):** From H1254. A primitive root; (absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes); choose, create (creator), cut down, dispatch, do, make (fat). This verb specifically refers to God's unique act of bringing something into existence, often without pre-existing material. Its use here reinforces the divine origin of humanity, emphasizing that man is not a product of evolution or chance, but a direct, intentional creation of God.
* **likeness (Hebrew, _dᵉmûwth'_):** From H1823. Resemblance; concretely, model, shape; adverbially, like; fashion, like (-ness, as), manner, similitude. "Likeness" (*demuth*) in conjunction with "image" (not in this verse, but implied from [Genesis 1:26](/genesis/1-26 "God creates humanity in His image")) describes humanity's unique spiritual, moral, rational, and relational capacities that reflect God's own attributes, distinguishing humans from all other created beings. It does not imply a physical resemblance but a profound ontological connection.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"This is the book of the generations of Adam."**: This opening clause serves as a formal superscription, introducing the second major *toledoth* section of Genesis. The phrase "book of the generations" (Hebrew: *sepher toledoth*) signifies a precise and authoritative historical record, not a mythical tale. It immediately establishes that the subsequent narrative will focus on the lineage and historical development stemming from Adam, affirming the historicity of humanity's progenitor and the continuity of the divine plan through his descendants. This declaration sets the stage for the detailed genealogy that follows, emphasizing the importance of lineage in tracing God's redemptive purposes.
* **"In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;"**: This second clause is a powerful recapitulation, echoing the initial creation account found in [Genesis 1:26-27](/genesis/1-26-27 "God's Creation of Humanity in His Image"). The phrase "in the day" (Hebrew: *yom*) often refers to a period of time, not necessarily a literal 24-hour day, encompassing the entire creative process of humanity. The re-statement that God "created man" (Hebrew: *bara' adam*) underscores humanity's divine origin and special status. Crucially, the reiteration that God made humanity "in the likeness of God" (Hebrew: *demuth Elohim*) serves as a profound theological anchor. Despite the devastating effects of the fall described in [Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "The Fall of Humanity"), this verse affirms that the *imago Dei*—humanity's unique capacity for reason, moral choice, relationality, and spiritual communion—remains foundational to human identity and dignity. It sets the stage for understanding God's continued engagement with humanity, not abandoning them, but working through a chosen line towards redemption.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 5:1 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is the **Toledoth Formula**, which acts as a structural marker throughout Genesis. By beginning with "This is the book of the generations of Adam," the text signals a new literary unit, providing a clear organizational framework for the entire book and emphasizing the genealogical progression of God's plan. This formula creates a sense of historical continuity and divine order. Additionally, there is powerful **Repetition** and **Echo** in the phrase "in the likeness of God made he him," directly recalling [Genesis 1:26-27](/genesis/1-26-27 "God's Creation of Humanity in His Image"). This repetition serves to emphasize the enduring truth of the *imago Dei* despite the fall, reinforcing humanity's inherent dignity and unique status. It also functions as a theological **Emphasis**, underscoring that even after sin, God's original creative intent for humanity remains foundational to His ongoing dealings with mankind and His redemptive purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 5:1 is a profound theological statement that bridges creation and subsequent human history, anchoring the unfolding narrative in God's original design and enduring purpose. By formally introducing the "generations of Adam" and immediately reiterating humanity's creation "in the likeness of God," the verse underscores the unwavering truth that human dignity is not contingent on moral perfection but on divine origin. Even after the fall, the *imago Dei* persists, albeit marred, providing the theological basis for God's continued engagement with humanity and His meticulous preservation of a lineage through which redemption will come. This verse sets the stage for understanding that God's plan is not derailed by sin but continues to unfold through historical, real-life individuals, demonstrating His sovereignty over time and His faithfulness to His covenantal promises.

* [Genesis 1:26-27](/genesis/1-26-27 "God Creates Humanity in His Image")
* [Genesis 9:6](/genesis/9-6 "The Basis for Capital Punishment and Human Dignity")
* [1 Chronicles 1:1](/1_chronicles/1-1 "Adam as the First Man in Chronicles' Genealogy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 5:1 invites us to pause and reflect on our deepest identity: we are image-bearers of God. This profound truth means that every human being, regardless of race, gender, status, or moral condition, possesses inherent dignity and immeasurable worth because they bear the divine imprint. This understanding should transform how we view ourselves and how we interact with others, compelling us to treat every individual with respect, compassion, and justice, recognizing the sacredness of human life. Furthermore, it calls us to live in a manner that genuinely reflects the character of our Creator, striving to embody righteousness, love, and truth in a world marred by sin. Our purpose is not merely to exist, but to image God in our relationships, our work, and our worship, living out the divine likeness in practical ways. How might remembering your creation in God's image impact your daily interactions?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the reiteration of humanity being made "in the likeness of God" (the *imago Dei*) after the fall impact your understanding of human dignity and worth today?**
* **In what practical ways can you live out your identity as an image-bearer of God in your family, community, or workplace?**
* **How does the concept of "generations" and the meticulous recording of lineage in Genesis encourage you about God's purposeful involvement in history, including your own life?**

### FAQ
**What does "the book of the generations of Adam" mean?**

Answer: This phrase, "the book of the generations of Adam" (Hebrew: *sepher toledoth Adam*), introduces a new literary and theological section in Genesis. It signifies a formal, authoritative historical record or register of the descendants and significant events related to Adam. It emphasizes the continuity of human history from its divine origin and establishes the factual, non-mythical nature of the ensuing genealogy, which traces the lineage through which God's redemptive plan will unfold. It is a foundational statement for the historical reliability of the biblical narrative.

**What does it mean to be made "in the likeness of God"?**

Answer: To be made "in the likeness of God" (the *imago Dei*) means that humanity possesses unique attributes and capacities that reflect God's nature, setting us apart from all other creation. This includes our ability to reason, exercise moral choice, engage in meaningful relationships, experience emotions, and have spiritual capacity for communion with God. It does not imply a physical resemblance, but rather a profound spiritual and ontological connection that bestows inherent dignity and worth upon every human being. This divine likeness, though marred by sin, was not erased by the fall, as affirmed here in [Genesis 5:1](/genesis/5-1 "Genesis 5:1 - The Generations of Adam").

**Why does Genesis reiterate the creation of man in God's likeness after the fall?**

Answer: The reiteration of humanity's creation "in the likeness of God" immediately after the accounts of the fall and Cain's sin serves several crucial purposes. First, it underscores that despite the catastrophic entry of sin and death into the world, God's original design and purpose for humanity remain foundational and unbroken. The *imago Dei* was not obliterated by sin, though it was distorted and its expression hindered. Second, it reaffirms the enduring basis for human dignity and the sanctity of human life, even in a fallen world, which is a theme picked up later in [Genesis 9:6](/genesis/9-6 "The Basis for Capital Punishment and Human Dignity"). Third, it sets the theological stage for God's ongoing redemptive plan, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His image-bearers and His intention to work through a specific lineage—Adam's generations—to ultimately bring about restoration and salvation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 5:1, by emphasizing humanity's creation "in the likeness of God," lays crucial groundwork for understanding Christ as the ultimate and perfect embodiment of that divine image. While Adam's lineage, and indeed all humanity, inherited a marred and fallen image due to sin, Jesus Christ is revealed as the ["image of the invisible God"](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of the Invisible God") (Colossians 1:15) and the ["exact imprint of his nature"](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory") (Hebrews 1:3). He is the "last Adam" (1 Corinthians 15:45), who perfectly fulfills the original human calling to bear God's image and exercise righteous dominion, a calling the first Adam failed. Through His redemptive work, Christ not only restores humanity to a right relationship with God but also begins the process of renewing the *imago Dei* in believers, transforming them ["into his image from one degree of glory to another"](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image") (2 Corinthians 3:18) and enabling them to put on ["the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness"](/ephesians/4-24 "Ephesians 4:24 - Putting on the New Self"). The meticulously recorded genealogy of Adam's generations ultimately finds its climax and purpose in the lineage that leads to Christ Himself (as seen in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")), demonstrating that the entire historical thread of God's plan, beginning with creation and the first man, finds its ultimate fulfillment and redemptive culmination in Jesus, the perfect Son and image of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ephesians 4:24

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Colossians 3:10

And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Genesis 1:26

¶ And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

Genesis 1:27

So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Hebrews 1:3

Who being the brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

Ecclesiastes 7:29

Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.

Genesis 10:1

¶ Now these [are] the generations of the sons of Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth: and unto them were sons born after the flood.