Genesis 5:2

Authorized King James Version

Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זָכָ֥ר
Male
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)
#2
וּנְקֵבָ֖ה
and female
female (from the sexual form)
#3
הִבָּֽרְאָֽם׃
created
(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)
#4
וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ
he them and blessed
to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as
#5
אֹתָ֗ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
וַיִּקְרָ֤א
them and called
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
שְׁמָם֙
their name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#9
אָדָ֔ם
Adam
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#10
בְּי֖וֹם
in the day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#11
הִבָּֽרְאָֽם׃
created
(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through universal language and absolute statements. 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

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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