Session 017: Genesis 5: The Genealogy from Adam to Noah

Class OverviewClass ResourcesClass Discussion Points
As we look at the genealogy of Adam to Noah, I think that you will be surprised at how much more is there than the genealogies. You are probably going to enjoy this session MUCH more than you expect. Especially since the entire chapter is nothing but a genealogy.
  • Scripture Audio:

    Presented as dramatizations from The Bible Gateway.

    Genesis 5


  • 5 Reasons you should read the Bibles Genealogies

    A short but insightful defense on why you should read the genealogies in the Bible.

    Article Link:


  • Making Sense of the Numbers of Genesis. Carol A. Hill

    This is the most complete article on numerology found in the book of Genesis that I could find. It is written as an academic article, so it is a little thick in a few places. This resource selection is replacing at least three separate ones that I was going to include.

    PDF Link:

  • Richard Middleton: Interpreting Biblical Genealogies

    This podcast is a good discussion on the possibilities for interpreting words differently within the context of Biblical Genealogies.

    Transcript Link:
    Podcast Link:

  • The Gospel in Genesis: A Hidden Message

    There is a Remez hidden in the Genealogy in chapter 5

    Article Link:


  • EXTRA CREDIT ARTICLES:

    A few extra credit resources. These resources wont be a direct part of the class discussion, but may prove helpful as you start looking into your own rabbit holes of study.

    The Case for the Septuagint’s Chronology in Genesis 5 and 11. Henry B. Smith Jr.

    This is another academic article on the various views of numerology found in Genesis. What I find interesting in this one is the detail of looking at the three different primary sources for the book of Genesis.

    Article Web Page:

    The Ages of the Antediluvian Patriarchs In Genesis 5

    A thorough summation of the different views for interpreting the ages within Genesis 5.

    Article Web Page:

In addition to the questions of concern listed above, here are a few other concepts to ponder as you work through this scripture and these resources.

  • What are your thoughts on the concepts of using numerology to explain the ages in the genealogy of chapter 5?
  • We usually think of their being a single source for Genesis. What are your thoughts about there being three different sources for the years listed in Chapter 5?
  • What are your thoughts on the interpretations of words such as begotten, begat, ‘had a son’, ‘became the father of’, ‘fathered’ and their potential meaning other than what we believe they mean with our Western perspective?
  • What are your thoughts about the meanings of the names in the genealogies outlining the story of Christ?
  • Now that you have studied these various resources; what do you personally feel is the biggest take-away from reading the genealogy in Genesis 5?