Genesis 5:10

And after he had become the father of Kenan, Enosh lived 815 years and had other sons and daughters.

Study Bible

After the birth of Enosh
This phrase marks a significant point in the genealogical record of Genesis. The name "Enosh" in Hebrew (אֱנוֹשׁ) means "man" or "mortal," reflecting the human condition post-Fall, emphasizing the frailty and dependency of humanity on God. Enosh's birth signifies the continuation of the godly line from Adam through Seth, contrasting with the line of Cain. This lineage is crucial as it leads to Noah and eventually to Jesus Christ, highlighting God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant through whom His promises would be fulfilled.

Seth lived 807 years
The longevity of Seth, living 807 years, is a testament to the pre-Flood conditions described in Genesis. This extended lifespan is often interpreted as a sign of God's blessing and the vitality of early humanity. Theologically, it underscores the idea that life, even in its fallen state, is a gift from God. The long lives of the patriarchs also allowed for the transmission of knowledge and faith across generations, ensuring the preservation of God's revelation and the anticipation of redemption.

and had other sons and daughters
This phrase indicates that Seth, like other patriarchs, had a large family, though only Enosh is named in the genealogical record. The mention of "other sons and daughters" suggests the proliferation of humanity as commanded by God in Genesis 1:28, "Be fruitful and multiply." It also implies the spread of the human race and the development of early societies. From a theological perspective, this growth is part of God's plan to fill the earth with His image-bearers, despite the presence of sin. The focus on Seth's line highlights the preservation of a faithful remnant through whom God's redemptive purposes would unfold.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Enosh
The grandson of Adam and the son of Seth. Enosh's name is often associated with the beginning of calling upon the name of the Lord, indicating a time of spiritual awakening or revival.

2. Kenan
The son of Enosh. His birth marks a continuation of the godly lineage from Adam through Seth, emphasizing the importance of family and generational faithfulness.

3. Other Sons and Daughters
This phrase indicates that Enosh had a large family, which was common in the antediluvian (pre-flood) period. It highlights the growth and expansion of humanity during this time.

Teaching Points

Generational Faithfulness
Enosh's life and lineage remind us of the importance of passing down faith and values to the next generation. We are called to be intentional in teaching our children about God and His ways.

The Significance of Names
In Hebrew culture, names often carried significant meaning. Enosh's name, meaning "man" or "mortal," can remind us of our human frailty and the need for dependence on God.

The Role of Family in God's Plan
The mention of "other sons and daughters" underscores the role of family in God's design. Families are foundational to society and to the transmission of faith.

The Importance of Spiritual Revival
The time of Enosh is marked by a turning to God. This serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual revival in our own lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the life of Enosh teach us about the importance of generational faithfulness, and how can we apply this in our own families today?

2. How does the mention of "other sons and daughters" in Genesis 5:10 reflect God's design for family, and what implications does this have for our understanding of community?

3. Considering the spiritual revival during Enosh's time, what steps can we take to encourage a similar revival in our own lives and communities?

4. How does the genealogy from Adam to Jesus, which includes Enosh, demonstrate the continuity of God's plan throughout history?

5. Reflect on the meaning of names in the Bible. How can understanding the significance of biblical names enhance our study of Scripture and our understanding of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:26
This verse mentions that during Enosh's time, people began to call on the name of the Lord, suggesting a revival of worship and devotion to God.

Luke 3:38
In the genealogy of Jesus, Enosh is listed, showing the continuity of God's plan through generations leading to Christ.

Psalm 90:10
Reflects on the length of human life, contrasting the long lifespans of early biblical figures like Enosh with the more typical lifespans of later generations.