Genesis 2:20

Authorized King James Version

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקְרָ֨א

H7121

gave

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

וּלְאָדָ֕ם

H120

And Adam

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

שֵׁמ֗וֹת

H8034

names

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

לְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַבְּהֵמָה֙

H929

to all cattle

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

וּלְע֣וֹף

H5775

and to the fowl

a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively

הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם

H8064

of the air

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וּלְכֹ֖ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

חַיַּ֣ת

H2416

and to every beast

alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

#10

הַשָּׂדֶ֑ה

H7704

of the field

a field (as flat)

#11

וּלְאָדָ֕ם

H120

And Adam

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

#12

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#13

מָצָ֥א

H4672

there was not found

properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

#14

עֵ֖זֶר

H5828

an help meet

aid

#15

כְּנֶגְדּֽוֹ׃

H5048

a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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