Genesis 6: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on the Corruption of Mankind

Executive Summary

Genesis 6, a pivotal chapter in salvation history, unveils the escalating wickedness of humanity and God’s subsequent sorrow and judgment. This passage, laden with profound theological implications, introduces the “sons of God” and the “daughters of men,” sparking diverse interpretations regarding their identity and the nature of their union. The chapter culminates in God’s decision to cleanse the earth through a great flood, yet offering a glimmer of hope through Noah, a righteous man who found favor in His eyes. Exploring this chapter through a Coptic Orthodox lens reveals profound insights into human nature, divine justice, and the enduring mercy of God, urging us to reflect on our own lives and strive for righteousness amidst a world often consumed by sin. Understanding the complexities of Genesis 6, particularly the identity of the sons of God, demands careful consideration, drawing upon the rich tapestry of scripture, tradition, and Patristic wisdom. Genesis 6 speaks to the perpetual struggle between good and evil and highlights God’s enduring love for those who remain faithful.

This in-depth commentary unpacks Genesis 6: The Corruption of Mankind, exploring its historical context, theological depth, and practical application within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. We will delve into the perplexing identity of the “sons of God,” the escalating wickedness that grieved God, and the ultimate act of divine judgment and grace embodied in Noah’s Ark.

Commentary Sections

Genesis 6:1-2 – The Sons of God and the Daughters of Men

Genesis 6:1-2 (NKJV): “Now it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, that the sons of God saw the daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose.”

The interpretation of “sons of God” (בְּנֵי הָאֱלֹהִים, *bənê hāʼĕlōhîm* in Hebrew) is crucial here. Some propose they were fallen angels, while others suggest they were descendants of Seth (the righteous line) intermarrying with the descendants of Cain (the unrighteous line). Coptic tradition often leans towards the latter, emphasizing the blurring of the lines between the holy and the profane. This intermingling resulted in a corruption that permeated all of society. The phrase “daughters of men” indicates mortal women, the offspring of human parents, not necessarily signifying inherent sinfulness but highlighting their perceived attractiveness in the eyes of the “sons of God”.

Saint Augustine offers a compelling perspective: “Neque enim credendum est, angelos Dei filios propter corporales species concupivisse feminas, sed illos homines, qui de genere Seth, quod vocatur filiorum Dei, propagati sunt, cum filias hominum, id est, eorum qui de genere Cain fuerunt, ad libidinem amarent, ita eis praeposuere carnales delectationes, ut spiritalem vitam contemnerent.” (Augustine, *De Civitate Dei*, XV, 23) – “For it is not to be believed that the angels, sons of God, lusted after women because of their bodily beauty, but that those men, who were propagated from the line of Seth, which is called the sons of God, when they loved the daughters of men, that is, those who were from the line of Cain, with lust, so preferred carnal delights to them, that they despised spiritual life.” This highlights the danger of prioritizing earthly pleasures over spiritual devotion.

Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant against allowing worldly allurements to distract us from our spiritual journey. Guard your heart against temptations that would lead you away from God’s path.

Genesis 6:3 – God’s Restraint and the Limit of Human Life

Genesis 6:3 (NKJV): “And the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh; yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.””

Here, God sets a limit to human lifespan. This can be interpreted as a mercy, preventing wickedness from compounding indefinitely. The phrase “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever” indicates a turning point in God’s patience. The Coptic Orthodox Church understands this as a declaration of divine judgment tempered with grace. God doesn’t abandon humanity entirely, but He establishes a boundary. The 120 years can be seen as a period of repentance granted to humanity before the impending flood. We can understand this as God’s reluctance to condemn his creation, extending a period for repentance and reform. God’s decision reveals his justice and mercy: justice in response to human wickedness, and mercy in delaying judgment and offering a path to salvation. This verse reminds us that God is not indifferent to human choices and behavior.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that God’s patience has limits. Use the time allotted to you wisely, pursuing repentance and seeking a closer relationship with Him. Remember God’s mercy and continuously seek repentance. Consider exploring resources at dohost’s website builder to construct a website dedicated to sharing your testimony.

Genesis 6:4 – The Nephilim

Genesis 6:4 (NKJV): “There were giants on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, men of renown.”

The Nephilim (נְפִלִים, *nəp̄îlîm* in Hebrew), often translated as “giants,” are shrouded in mystery. Some interpretations see them as the offspring of the “sons of God” and “daughters of men,” possessing extraordinary physical strength and contributing to the overall violence and corruption of the pre-flood world. Their presence emphasizes the extent to which wickedness had permeated society. The book of Enoch, though not canonical in the Coptic Orthodox Church, provides further (albeit apocryphal) details about the Nephilim and their impact on humanity.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the corrupting influences that surround you. Seek to emulate the virtues of humility and righteousness, resisting the temptation to pursue power or fame at the expense of your soul. Remain steadfast in your faith despite the presence of evil forces.

Genesis 6:5-7 – God’s Grief and Determination to Destroy

Genesis 6:5-7 (NKJV): “Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.””

This passage is a stark depiction of the depths of human depravity. God’s sorrow (“was sorry that He had made man”) highlights the immense disappointment felt by the Creator when His creation turns away from Him. It is not a literal regret, but rather an anthropomorphic expression of profound grief. The comprehensive nature of the intended destruction underscores the pervasiveness of sin. Every aspect of life, from thought to action, was corrupted. This devastation is not merely punishment, but an act of purification, necessary to cleanse the earth and pave the way for a new beginning.

Saint Cyril of Alexandria comments: “Οὐ γὰρ ὡς ἄνθρωπος ἐμετανοεῖ, ἀλλ’ ἐπειδὴ τὸ ἔργον αὐτοῦ διεφθάρη, δικαίως ἐλυπήθη.” (Cyril of Alexandria, *Glaphyra in Genesim*, II) – “For He does not repent as a man, but because His work was corrupted, He was justly grieved.” This emphasizes that God’s grief stems from the corruption of His creation, not from a flaw in His plan.

Spiritual Application: Examine your own heart. Are your thoughts and intentions aligned with God’s will? Strive to cultivate a heart that is pure and pleasing to Him, turning away from evil and embracing righteousness.

Genesis 6:8 – Noah Finds Grace

Genesis 6:8 (NKJV): “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.”

Amidst the pervasive wickedness, Noah stands out as a beacon of righteousness. Finding “grace” in God’s eyes signifies that Noah was pleasing to God due to his obedience and faith. This verse offers a ray of hope, demonstrating that even in the darkest of times, individuals can find favor with God through righteous living. This prepares us for the subsequent narrative of the flood and the promise of a new covenant.

Spiritual Application: Strive to live a life of righteousness and obedience. Even when surrounded by wickedness, remember that God sees and rewards those who remain faithful to Him. Noah’s example shows that it is possible to maintain integrity and faith in a corrupt world.

Genesis 6:9-10 – Noah’s Righteousness and Family

Genesis 6:9-10 (NKJV): “This is the genealogy of Noah. Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God. And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.”

This passage highlights Noah’s character: “just,” “perfect,” and one who “walked with God.” These qualities are essential for understanding why he found grace. “Just” implies righteousness in his dealings with others. “Perfect” doesn’t suggest sinlessness, but rather completeness or blamelessness in his devotion to God. To “walk with God” signifies a close, intimate relationship built on obedience and trust. The mention of Noah’s sons sets the stage for the repopulation of the earth after the flood. The concept of walking with God echoes the close relationship enjoyed by Enoch (Genesis 5:24), further emphasizing the importance of righteous living and devotion to God. Noah’s righteousness is also highlighted in other parts of Scripture (e.g., Hebrews 11:7, 2 Peter 2:5).

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a close relationship with God through prayer, studying His word, and striving to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Let your righteousness shine as a light to those around you. Make an effort to cultivate a personal and continuous relationship with God through prayer and adherence to His teachings.

Genesis 6:11-12 – The Earth’s Corruption and Violence

Genesis 6:11-12 (NKJV): “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.”

These verses reiterate the pervasive nature of corruption and violence. The phrase “corrupt before God” emphasizes that God was fully aware of the wickedness taking place. The description of the earth being “filled with violence” underscores the breakdown of social order and the prevalence of injustice. The use of “all flesh” reinforces the universality of the corruption. Violence and corruption often go hand-in-hand, leading to societal breakdown and moral decay. God’s perspective reveals the profound deviation from His original intent for creation.

Spiritual Application: Be a peacemaker. Resist violence and strive to promote justice and righteousness in your community. Work to alleviate suffering and to heal the wounds of a broken world. Recognize the pervasive nature of evil and continuously guard against its influence in your life and community.

Genesis 6:13-22 – God’s Instructions to Noah

Genesis 6:13-22 (NKJV): “And God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark of gopherwood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch. And this is how you shall make it: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits. You shall make a window for the ark, and you shall finish it to a cubit from above; and set the door of the ark in its side. You shall make it with lower, second, and third decks. And behold, I Myself am bringing floodwaters on the earth, to destroy from under heaven all flesh in which is the breath of life; everything that is on the earth shall die. But I will establish My covenant with you; and you shall go into the ark—you, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you. And of every living thing of all flesh you shall bring two of every sort into the ark, to keep them alive with you; they shall be male and female. Of the birds after their kind, of animals after their kind, and of every creeping thing of the earth after its kind, two of every kind will come to you to keep them alive. And you shall take for yourself of all food that is eaten, and you shall gather it to yourself; and it shall be food for you and for them.” Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.”

This section details God’s instructions for building the ark. The specific dimensions highlight the immense size of the vessel, capable of housing Noah, his family, and pairs of every living creature. God’s command illustrates His sovereignty and ability to direct events according to His will. The covenant established with Noah ensures preservation and a new beginning for humanity and all living things. The act of Noah following God’s instructions demonstrates his obedience and faith. This obedience is a stark contrast to the disobedience and corruption of the rest of humanity. The ark serves as a symbol of salvation, providing refuge from the impending judgment.
The specific dimensions of the ark reflect God’s wisdom and careful planning, ensuring its seaworthiness and capacity.

Spiritual Application: When God calls you to a task, obey Him wholeheartedly, even when it seems impossible. Trust in His provision and guidance, knowing that He will equip you to fulfill His purpose. Learn to embrace and emulate the virtue of obedience in your life. Seek to fulfill God’s commands even when they appear daunting or impractical.

Subtopic Sections

The Ark as a Type of the Church ✨

The Ark serves as a prefigurement of the Church. Just as the Ark provided refuge from the flood, the Church offers salvation from the storms of life.

Salvation: The Ark provided physical salvation; the Church provides spiritual salvation.
Refuge: Both offer refuge from destruction and chaos.
Community: Both house a community of believers/survivors.
Guidance: The Ark was built according to God’s instructions; the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit.
New Beginning: The Ark led to a new beginning for humanity; the Church leads to eternal life.
Faith: Entering the Ark required faith; being part of the Church requires faith in Christ.

The Importance of Obedience 💡

Noah’s unwavering obedience is a powerful example for us.

Trust: Obedience demonstrates trust in God’s wisdom.
Blessing: Obedience leads to blessing and favor.
Protection: Obedience provides protection from harm.
Example: Obedience sets a positive example for others.
Relationship: Obedience strengthens our relationship with God.
Fruitfulness: Obedience leads to a fruitful and fulfilling life.

FAQ ❓

Q: Who were the “sons of God” in Genesis 6?

A: The identity of the “sons of God” is debated, but a common Coptic Orthodox interpretation is that they were descendants of Seth who intermarried with the descendants of Cain, leading to widespread corruption. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and avoiding alliances with those who reject God.

Q: Why did God decide to destroy the earth?

A: God saw that the wickedness of humanity had become so pervasive that “every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). The earth was filled with violence, and God’s justice demanded a response to this rampant sin, though this was tempered with mercy through the provision of the Ark.

Q: What is the spiritual significance of the Ark?

A: The Ark symbolizes salvation, providing refuge from God’s judgment. It is also seen as a type of the Church, offering spiritual protection and a pathway to eternal life for those who enter it through faith in Christ. The ark demonstrates God’s plan of salvation and protection for his people.

Q: What does Noah’s story teach us about living a righteous life?

A: Noah’s story demonstrates the importance of obedience, faith, and maintaining a close relationship with God, even in the midst of a corrupt world. His example encourages us to remain steadfast in our commitment to righteousness and to trust in God’s provision, even when faced with seemingly impossible challenges.

Conclusion

Genesis 6, a powerful narrative of human corruption and divine judgment, ultimately offers a beacon of hope through Noah’s righteousness. This chapter underscores the profound impact of sin and the necessity of divine intervention to cleanse the earth. Noah’s story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, righteousness and obedience to God can lead to salvation and a new beginning. The Ark, a symbol of refuge and preservation, prefigures the Church, which offers spiritual salvation and protection from the storms of life. Therefore, let us strive to live lives pleasing to God, seeking His grace and following His commands, so that we too may find favor in His eyes. Genesis 6: The Corruption of Mankind serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the enduring need for God’s mercy in a world filled with wickedness.

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Explore Genesis 6 with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Uncover the meaning of the “sons of God,” the great flood, and Noah’s salvation. Learn how this ancient story applies to modern life!

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Genesis 6 – The Corruption of Mankind & Noah’s Call