Genesis 5:22

And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters:

And Enoch {H2585} walked {H1980} with {H854} God {H430} after {H310} he begat {H3205}{H853} Methuselah {H4968} three {H7969} hundred {H3967} years {H8141}, and begat {H3205} sons {H1121} and daughters {H1323}:

After Metushelach was born, Hanokh walked with God 300 years and had sons and daughters.

And after he had become the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters.

and Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters:

Commentary

Genesis 5:22 (KJV) introduces Enoch, a pivotal figure in the early biblical narrative, distinct from the typical genealogical entries of his time. While the chapter primarily chronicles a lineage marked by birth, life, and death, Enoch stands out for his extraordinary relationship with God.

Context

This verse is part of the "generations of Adam" (Genesis 5:1), tracing the lineage from Adam to Noah in the antediluvian period. The common refrain throughout this chapter is "and he died," highlighting the pervasive nature of mortality after the Fall. However, Enoch's account breaks this pattern. His son, Methuselah, whose name is often interpreted to mean "when he dies, it shall be sent" (referring to the Flood), may have marked a significant turning point in Enoch's spiritual life, prompting a deeper commitment to God.

Key Themes

  • Intimate Relationship with God: The phrase "walked with God" is central, signifying a continuous, close companionship and alignment with God's will. It describes a lifestyle of devotion and communion, not just isolated acts of piety.
  • Faith Amidst Daily Life: Enoch lived a normal life, "begat sons and daughters," yet maintained an exceptional spiritual walk for 300 years. This demonstrates that a deep relationship with God is possible even within the responsibilities of family and society.
  • Godly Example: Enoch serves as a pre-Flood example of profound faith and obedience, a testament to what a life consecrated to God looks like. His life foreshadows the principle that without faith it is impossible to please God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "walked with God" is halak im Ha'Elohim (Χ”ΧœΧš אΧͺ Χ”ΧΧœΧ”Χ™Χ). The verb halak means "to walk" or "to go," and the preposition im means "with." This emphasizes a continuous, active companionship and agreement, suggesting that Enoch's life was lived in harmony with God's desires and presence. It implies a moral and spiritual alignment, where his actions and thoughts were pleasing to God. This is distinct from simply "walking before God," which can imply service or accountability, but "walking with" suggests intimacy and friendship.

Significance and Cross-References

Enoch's unique walk with God culminates in a remarkable event described in Genesis 5:24, where "God took him." The New Testament further illuminates Enoch's life, affirming that he "had this testimony, that he pleased God" (Hebrews 11:5) and specifically highlighting his faith as the reason for his translation. Furthermore, Enoch is recognized as a prophet, having delivered a significant prophecy concerning the Lord's coming with His saints (Jude 1:14-15).

Practical Application

Enoch's life provides an enduring model for believers today. His story encourages us that a deep, consistent "walk with God" is attainable, even amidst the demands of everyday life. It underscores the importance of cultivating an intimate relationship with the Creator through faith, obedience, and continuous communion. Just as Enoch's life was marked by God's favor, so too can our lives be transformed when we prioritize walking in alignment with His will, trusting in His presence and guidance.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:12 (10 votes)

    That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

  • Genesis 17:1 (9 votes)

    ΒΆ And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.

  • Genesis 6:9 (7 votes)

    These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.

  • Luke 1:6 (7 votes)

    And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

  • Malachi 2:6 (7 votes)

    The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.

  • 1 John 1:7 (6 votes)

    But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

  • Micah 6:8 (6 votes)

    He hath shewed thee, O man, what [is] good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?