Genesis 6:2

That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּרְא֤וּ

H7200

saw

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

בְנֵי

H1121

That the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙

H430

of God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

בְּנ֣וֹת

H1323

the daughters

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

הָֽאָדָ֔ם

H120

of men

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

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

טֹבֹ֖ת

H2896

were fair

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

הֵ֑נָּה

H2007

that they

themselves (often used emphatic for the copula, also in indirect relation)

#10

וַיִּקְח֤וּ

H3947

and they took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

#11

לָהֶם֙

#12

נָשִׁ֔ים

H802

them wives

a woman

#13

מִכֹּ֖ל

H3605

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

#14

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#15

בָּחָֽרוּ׃

H977

of all which they chose

properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. 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

How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?

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