Etymology and Meaning: The name Me-thu'sha-el (also spelled Methushael) is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is often interpreted as "Man of God" or "Who is of God." The name reflects a theophoric element, incorporating "El," a common reference to God in Hebrew names.

Biblical References: Me-thu'sha-el is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Book of Genesis. He is a descendant of Cain, the firstborn son of Adam and Eve, who is infamous for committing the first murder by killing his brother Abel.

Scriptural Account: Me-thu'sha-el is introduced in Genesis 4:18, which states: "To Enoch was born Irad, and Irad was the father of Mehujael, and Mehujael was the father of Methushael, and Methushael was the father of Lamech" . This passage places Me-thu'sha-el in the lineage of Cain, highlighting the continuation of Cain's line despite his transgression.

Genealogical Significance: Me-thu'sha-el is part of the antediluvian (pre-Flood) genealogy that traces the descendants of Cain. His position in the genealogy is significant as it leads to Lamech, a notable figure who is known for his polygamy and his own acts of violence, as recorded in Genesis 4:23-24. This lineage contrasts with the line of Seth, Adam and Eve's other son, which is often seen as the godly line leading to Noah.

Cultural and Theological Context: The genealogy of Cain, including Me-thu'sha-el, is often viewed as a representation of the spread of sin and human corruption following the Fall. The names and accounts in this lineage are sometimes interpreted as illustrating the moral decline of humanity, culminating in the judgment of the Flood. Me-thu'sha-el's name, however, with its reference to God, may suggest a lingering awareness of the divine, even within a line marked by rebellion.

Historical and Literary Analysis: The brief mention of Me-thu'sha-el in the Bible leaves much to interpretation and speculation. His role is primarily genealogical, serving as a link in the chain from Cain to Lamech. The genealogies in Genesis are often seen as more than mere historical records; they are theological constructs that convey deeper truths about human nature, sin, and the need for redemption.

Conclusion: While Me-thu'sha-el himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogy of Cain provides insight into the early generations of humanity and the unfolding of biblical history. His name, carrying a reference to God, stands as a reminder of the divine presence and influence, even amidst a lineage marked by sin.Me-thu'sha-el (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 4:18
To Enoch was born Irad. Irad became the father of Mehujael. Mehujael became the father of Methushael. Methushael became the father of Lamech.
(See RSV)

Me-thu'sha-el (1 Occurrence)
Me-thu'sha-el. Methushael, Me-thu'sha-el. Methushelah . Multi-Version Concordance
Me-thu'sha-el (1 Occurrence). Genesis 4:18 To Enoch was born Irad. ...
/m/me-thu'sha-el.htm - 6k

Methushael (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia METHUSHAEL. me-thu'-sha-el (methusha'el): A descendant
of Cain, and father of Lamech in the Cainite genealogy (Genesis 4:18). ...
/m/methushael.htm - 7k

Methushelah (6 Occurrences)

/m/methushelah.htm - 7k

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