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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 5:28–32. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here we have the first mention of Noah, of whom we shall read much in the following chapters. Observe,
I.His name, with the reason of it:
Noah signifies rest; his parents gave him that name, with a prospect of his being a more than ordinary blessing to his generation: This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the Lord hath cursed. Here is,
1.Lamech's complaint of the calamitous state of human life. By the entrance of sin, and the entail of the curse for sin, our condition has become very miserable: our whole life is spent in labour, and our time filled up with continual toil. God having cursed the ground, it is as much as some can do, with the utmost care and pains, to fetch a hard livelihood out of it. He speaks as one fatigued with the business of this life, and grudging that so many thoughts and precious minutes, which otherwise might have been much better employed, are unavoidably spent for the support of the body.
2.His comfortable hopes of some relief by the birth of this son: This same shall comfort us, which denotes not only the desire and expectation which parents generally have concerning their children (that, when they grow up, they will be comforts to them and helpers in their business, though they often prove otherwise), but an apprehension and prospect of something more. Very probably there were some prophecies that went before of him, as a person that should be wonderfully serviceable to his generation, which they so understood as to conclude that he was the promised seed, the Messiah that should come; and then it intimates that a covenant-interest in Christ as ours, and the believing expectation of his coming, furnish us with the best and surest comforts, both in reference to the wrath and curse of God which we have deserved and to the toils and troubles of this present time of which we are often complaining. "Is Christ ours? Is heaven ours? This same shall comfort us."
II.His children, Shem, Ham, and Japheth.
These Noah begat (the eldest of these) when he was 500 years old. It should seem that Japheth was the eldest (Gen 10:21), but Shem is put first because on him the covenant was entailed, as appears by Gen 9:26, where God is called the Lord God of Shem. To him, it is probable, the birth-right was given, and from him, it is certain, both Christ the head, and the church the body, were to descend. Therefore he is called Shem, which signifies a name, because in his posterity the name of God should always remain, till he should come out of his loins whose name is above every name; so that in putting Shem first Christ was, in effect, put first, who in all things must have the pre-eminence.
Historical interpretation
Four Centuries of Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
After recounting the ten generations from Adam to Noah, Moses said, “Noah was five hundred years old and begot Shem and Ham and Japheth.” During this entire time Noah was an example to his sons by his virtue, for he had preserved virginity for five hundred years among those of whom it was said, “All flesh corrupted its path.”
Adam lived for one hundred and thirty years, and he begot a son in his own likeness and image, and he named him Seth. Adam indeed was created in the likeness and image of God, because he was made immortal in both soul and body. However, after he corrupted the image and likeness of God in himself by sinning, he begot a son in his own likeness and image, that is, mortal, corruptible, capable of reason, bound by the guilt of his transgression, and to be freed only by the grace of his Creator. It should be noted that where our Codices, translated from the Hebrew source, say Adam lived for one hundred and thirty years and begot Seth, the ancient translation has, instead of one hundred and thirty, two hundred and thirty; where our Codices continue, "And the days of Adam after he begot Seth were eight hundred years, and he begot sons and daughters," that one has seven hundred instead of eight hundred. And where it concludes, "And all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years, and he died," it places the same total, and such a distinction of numbers is preserved in all generations up to the flood between the two editions, so that before the birth of a son each one in the Septuagint is said to have had one hundred years more, and after the birth one hundred years less than in the Hebrew truth. But in the conclusion, both editions place an equal number; except only in the sixth generation; where in both Codices, Jared is found to have begotten Enoch at one hundred and sixty-two years, and after his birth to have lived eight hundred years: and in the ninth, where, according to the Hebrew truth, Lamech begot Noah when he was one hundred and eighty years old, and after he was born, he is found to have survived for five hundred and ninety-five years. However, in the Septuagint, the years before Noah was born are found to be one hundred and eighty-eight, and after he was born, five hundred sixty-five; thus it happens that Lamech is found to have lived twenty-four years longer in Hebrew than in the Septuagint Codices: by which difference of interpretations, it is made that the lifetime of Methuselah seems to extend fourteen years beyond the flood, and so the years before the flood according to the Hebrews are one thousand five hundred and fifty-six; according to the Septuagint, which the chronographers follow, two thousand two hundred and forty-two: although the most learned Augustine professes that even in the Septuagint translation, Methuselah is found in fewer but more accurate Codices to have died six years before the flood: who, when he most diligently investigated the cause of the aforementioned discord in interpretations, and did not wish to derogate from the faith of the Septuagint translators, whom the apostles and evangelists are proven to have followed in many places; and he himself believed they used more a prophetic gift than the office of interpretation in translating the Scriptures; he concluded in this way, saying: "Therefore it is more credible for someone to say that when these first began to be copied from the library of Ptolemy; at that time, something like this could have happened in one Codex, but first copied from there, from which it spread more widely, where indeed the error of the scribe could have happened. However, it is not absurd to suspect this in that question about the life of Methuselah." And after some: "I would not doubt at all that it is rightly done, he says, when something different is found in both Codices, since both cannot be according to the faith of the transactions, that the truth be believed rather to the language from which it is translated into another by interpreters." Therefore, according to Hebrew truth, Adam lived one hundred and thirty years and begot Seth. Seth lived one hundred and five years and begot Enos. Enos lived ninety years and begot Cainan. Cainan lived eighty years and begot Mahalalel. Mahalalel lived sixty-five years and begot Jared. Jared lived one hundred and sixty-two years and begot Enoch.
Noah indeed, when he was five hundred years old, begot Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Therefore, Noah was born in the tenth generation, because he both represented and led the lives of those who are perfect in the observance of the Decalogue. He begot three sons, so that his service to the Lord in the faith of the Holy Trinity and the produce of spiritual virtues would also be signified by the fruit of his physical offspring; although, according to history, it was appropriate for him to have begotten three sons, in whom the seed of the world perishing was to be left to a future generation, so that through the offspring of the three sons, indeed, the three parts of the world would be filled. For the sons of Shem especially possessed Asia, the offspring of Ham Africa, and the descendants of Japheth Europe.
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Summary
Genesis 5:32 marks a critical juncture in the biblical narrative, revealing Noah's age of five hundred years and the birth of his three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This verse concludes the lengthy antediluvian genealogy of Genesis 5, serving as a divinely appointed chronological marker that signals the imminent global judgment of the Flood and highlights God's meticulous preparation for the preservation and re-establishment of humanity through this chosen family. It underscores the precise timing of God's redemptive plan amidst escalating human corruption.
Context
Literary Context
Genesis 5:32 serves as the culminating verse of Genesis chapter 5, a meticulously structured genealogical record that traces the lineage from Adam, through Seth, down to Noah. This chapter is characterized by its repetitive formula ("lived X years and begat Y... and all the days of Z were A years, and he died"), emphasizing the mortality of humanity while simultaneously highlighting the continuity of the promised seed. The introduction of Noah's sons at the chapter's close shifts the narrative's focus from the long, dying line of Adam to the family through whom God's redemptive purposes would be carried forward. It immediately precedes the stark description of pervasive human wickedness in Genesis 6:1-8, setting the stage for the divine judgment of the Flood.
Historical & Cultural Context
The antediluvian period, as depicted in Genesis 5, portrays an era of extraordinary longevity, where human lifespans extended for centuries. This longevity allowed for significant population growth and, unfortunately, the widespread proliferation of sin, as described in Genesis 6:5. Genealogies in the ancient Near East were not merely dry lists of names but served crucial functions: establishing lineage, validating claims to land or authority, and preserving historical memory. In the biblical context, this genealogy underscores God's faithfulness in preserving a righteous line, even as the world descended into chaos. The mention of Noah's age at the birth of his sons, specifically 500 years, is a precise chronological detail that situates this family's emergence within the broader timeline leading up to the Flood, which would commence when Noah was 600 years old, as noted in Genesis 7:6.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights Divine Sovereignty and Timing, demonstrating God's meticulous orchestration of human history, even down to the timing of births, to fulfill His redemptive purposes. The introduction of Noah's family underscores the theme of the Preservation of a Remnant, where God, amidst widespread corruption, faithfully preserves a righteous line through whom His covenant promises will continue. Furthermore, the birth of these sons foreshadows New Beginnings and Re-creation, signaling that a new phase of human history is about to commence after the impending judgment, echoing the initial creation mandate found in Genesis 1:28. Finally, the emphasis on "begat" and the specific naming of the sons reinforces the Importance of Lineage in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, a theme that will culminate in the lineage of the Messiah.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Derived from the Hebrew root meaning "rest" or "comfort." This name is profoundly significant, especially in light of Genesis 5:29, where Lamech prophesies that Noah "shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed." Noah's name foreshadows his role as the one who brings a form of "rest" or relief to humanity through the preservation of life and the establishment of a new covenant after the Flood.
A primitive root meaning "to bear young; causatively, to beget." This term is a foundational verb throughout Genesis 5, emphasizing the continuity of generations. Here, it signifies more than mere biological procreation; it denotes the establishment of a lineage, a direct and unbroken chain of descendants. In the context of Noah, it highlights the divine purpose in establishing the family through whom all future humanity would descend, ensuring the continuation of the human race and the redemptive line.
"Shâneh" refers to a "year" as a revolution of time, while "bên" means "son" but is also used idiomatically to denote age (e.g., "son of X years"). The precise mention of Noah being "five hundred years old" is a crucial chronological marker. It indicates that the birth of his sons occurred well in advance of the Flood (which commenced when Noah was 600), signifying God's deliberate and patient preparation for the impending judgment. This timing ensures that the family unit essential for humanity's preservation was mature and ready for the monumental task ahead.
Verse Breakdown
"And Noah was five hundred years old:"
This clause provides a precise chronological anchor, establishing Noah's age at a significant milestone. It highlights the vast lifespans of the antediluvian patriarchs and serves as a divine timestamp. This age is not arbitrary but points to God's deliberate timing in the unfolding of His plan, indicating that the period leading up to the Flood was characterized by divine patience and preparation.
"and Noah begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth."
This clause introduces the three pivotal figures through whom all post-Flood humanity would descend. The act of "begetting" here emphasizes the establishment of a complete and divinely ordained family unit. These sons are not merely individuals but represent the entirety of future nations, setting the stage for the repopulation of the earth and the subsequent "Table of Nations" in Genesis 10. Their introduction signifies the completion of the chosen family through whom God's redemptive purposes would be carried forward.
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Genesis 5:32, and indeed throughout Genesis chapter 5, is Genealogy. This structured list of generations serves as a crucial framework for the biblical narrative, tracing the lineage from Adam to Noah and emphasizing the continuity of the human race despite the pervasive sin and mortality. The verse also functions as a Chronological Marker, with the specific mention of Noah's age providing a precise timestamp that anchors the narrative within a divine timeline, indicating God's purposeful progression of history. Furthermore, the introduction of Noah's sons acts as Anticipation and Foreshadowing, subtly preparing the reader for the impending Flood narrative by identifying the specific family through whom humanity will be preserved and a new beginning initiated.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Genesis 5:32, while brief, is rich with theological significance. It underscores God's meticulous and sovereign control over history, demonstrating His patience and providential care even in the face of escalating human wickedness. The birth of Noah's sons at this specific juncture reveals God's deliberate preparation for the preservation of humanity, ensuring that a righteous remnant would survive the impending judgment. This act of divine foresight highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, which moves forward through chosen individuals and families, even when the broader world is in rebellion. It is a testament to God's faithfulness to His creation and His unwavering commitment to His purposes, foreshadowing the new covenant and the re-establishment of a relationship with humanity after the cleansing judgment.
Reflection and Application
This seemingly simple verse offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that even in times of widespread moral decay and global uncertainty, God remains sovereign, actively working behind the scenes to fulfill His purposes. Noah's life, marked by the birth of his sons at a divinely appointed time, teaches us the importance of patient obedience and faithfulness to God's call, even when the future is unclear. We are called to trust in God's perfect timing, recognizing that He often prepares for significant redemptive acts long before they manifest. Like Noah, we are to be stewards of the spiritual heritage entrusted to us, raising families and nurturing communities that reflect God's design, knowing that our faithfulness, however small, can play a part in His grand narrative of salvation and renewal. This verse offers hope for new beginnings, reminding us that even after periods of great trial or judgment, God is always at work to bring about restoration and a fresh start.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is Noah's age (500 years) specifically mentioned here?
The mention of Noah's age is a crucial chronological marker within the biblical narrative. It precisely anchors the birth of his sons within the timeline leading up to the Flood. This detail highlights God's deliberate preparation and timing, as the Flood would commence when Noah was 600 years old, as stated in Genesis 7:6. By introducing his sons at 500, the text emphasizes that the family unit essential for humanity's preservation was established and mature, ready to participate in the building of the ark and ensure the continuation of life after the impending global judgment.
Why are only three sons named, and what is their significance?
Only Shem, Ham, and Japheth are named because they are the three progenitors of all post-Flood humanity. They represent the three major branches from which all nations and peoples would descend, as meticulously detailed in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10. Their specific roles and destinies, including the prophetic blessings and curses pronounced by Noah, are further elaborated in Genesis chapter 9, solidifying their foundational significance for the entire human race.
How does this verse relate to the impending Flood?
This verse is a vital precursor to the Flood narrative. It sets the stage by introducing the specific family through whom God would preserve a remnant of humanity from the global catastrophe. The birth of Noah's sons signifies that the chosen family unit was complete and mature enough to assist Noah in the monumental task of building the ark and, crucially, to ensure the repopulation of the earth after the Flood. It underscores God's providential care and His meticulous planning for the future of His creation, even in the face of widespread wickedness described in Genesis 6:5-8.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Genesis 5:32, by introducing the lineage through which humanity would be preserved, indirectly but profoundly points to Christ. Noah, as the "new Adam" through whom humanity is re-established after a cataclysmic judgment, serves as a powerful type of Christ, who is the ultimate "last Adam" (1 Corinthians 15:45). Just as Noah's family was divinely chosen to survive a world-ending judgment and bring forth a new beginning, so Christ, through His death and resurrection, inaugurates a new creation, offering salvation and new life to all who are in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17). The preservation of Shem's line is particularly significant, as it is through Shem that Abraham and ultimately the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would descend, as meticulously traced in Luke 3:36. Thus, this verse quietly affirms God's unwavering commitment to the redemptive line that would ultimately bring forth the promised "seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15), who fulfills the need for a perfect deliverer and establishes a new and better covenant for all humanity (Hebrews 8:6).