Are Biblical Lifespans and Genealogies Consistent?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 5:7 contradicts Genesis 46:27, Exodus 6:16, Psalm 90:10, 1 Samuel 15:35 and Hebrews 7:3. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In Genesis 5:7, we learn that Seth lived for a very long period after the birth of his son Enos, and it implies he had many more children. This depiction of extended lifespans is a common theme in the genealogies of early Biblical figures. People like Seth, as described, lived much longer than what we consider normal today. However, when we explore other parts of the Bible, a different picture emerges.
Consider Genesis 46:27, which provides a snapshot of Jacob's family as they moved to Egypt. This verse emphasizes specific family numbers, highlighting differences in family lineage and numbers compared to earlier generational accounts. It raises questions about the consistencies in family records across different Biblical passages.
Similarly, Exodus 6:16 gives genealogies of the tribe of Levi. The lifespans and generational differences here contrast with the accounts in Genesis, suggesting a shift in how time and lineage were recorded or perceived.
Furthermore, Psalm 90:10 speaks of the typical human lifespan as seventy to eighty years. This stark difference from the extended lifespans noted in Genesis prompts a reconsideration of how these biblical ages were understood. It is analogous to modern debates about historical records; was time experienced differently, or was it perhaps recorded with symbolic significance?
In the narrative of 1 Samuel 15:35, God's expression of regret presents another kind of contrast. It challenges notions of unchangeable perfection often seen in genealogical accounts, where long lives seem idealized.
Lastly, Hebrews 7:3 presents Melchizedek as a figure without a recorded genealogy. This absence stands apart from the emphasis on detailed family lines elsewhere in the Bible, prompting a reflection on the variable importance of lineage.
These contradictions provoke intriguing discussions about historical accounting, symbolic interpretations, and the evolving nature of scriptural emphasis. They invite us to ponder the diverse ways human experiences and stories are woven together in these ancient texts.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 5:7 | And Seth lived after he begat Enos eight hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters: |
| 2. | Genesis 46:27 | And the sons of Joseph, which were born him in Egypt, [were] two souls: all the souls of the house of Jacob, which came into Egypt, [were] threescore and ten. |
| 3. | Exodus 6:16 | And these [are] the names of the sons of Levi according to their generations; Gershon, and Kohath, and Merari: and the years of the life of Levi [were] an hundred thirty and seven years. |
| 4. | Psalm 90:10 | The days of our years [are] threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength [they be] fourscore years, yet [is] their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. [The days...: Heb. As for the days of our years, in them are seventy years] |
| 5. | 1 Samuel 15:35 | And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel. |
| 6. | Hebrews 7:3 | Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. [without descent: Gr. without pedigree] |