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The Lifespans in Biblical Times: From 900 Years to 70 Years

May 09, 2025Culture4346
The Lifespans in Biblical Times: From 900 Years to 70 Years When delvi

The Lifespans in Biblical Times: From 900 Years to 70 Years

When delving into the ancient accounts of biblical times, one cannot help but wonder about the lifespans of the early human inhabitants. Before the great flood, people lived over 900 years, with no concept of the duration of a day or year. They knew that the sun appeared at dawn and the moon took over in the evening. They had no knowledge of age, and thus any age could be written in the book.

The Lifespans Before the Flood

Before the great flood, people like Jared lived for an astonishing 962 years, while Adam himself lived 930 years. The lack of rain in those ancient times meant that water sources were managed by unique means, similar to a terrarium.

The Lifespans After the Flood

Following the flood, humans began to live shorter lives. Initially, people lived to about 120 years of age. Later, God reduced this to 70 years, but by reason of their strength, they could live longer. However, the original purpose was to demonstrate God's will for humanity and the potential for eternal life.

Genesis and the Original Lifespan

According to the Bible, God created Adam and Eve with the potential to live forever. In Genesis 2:15-17, God stated that their life expectancy was eternal if they chose to obey Him. In Genesis 2:7, it is written that God formed Adam from dust, blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and he became a living being.

Genesis 2:17 emphasized that Adam would live forever if he remained obedient to God. However, they ate from the tree of knowledge, which represented the choice between life and death, and thus, their lifespan was shortened. Adam died at the age of 930, as recorded in Genesis 5:5.

Longer Lifespan in Early Mankind

From Genesis 5:20, we learn that Jared had a longer lifespan than Adam, living until 962 years of age. This highlights the potential for longer lives, which was later reduced. Psalm 90:10 mentions that the life span of humans is 70 years, or 80 if one is especially strong. But they are filled with trouble and sorrow, focusing on Genesis 3:16-17.

The Future of Humanity

Despite the reduced life expectancy, the Bible predicts a future where humans will once again possess the earth and live forever on it. Revelation 21:4 states: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes." Revelation 3:4 suggests that the heartbreak of today's suffering will be seen as something that has passed away.

Hope and Purpose

The Book of Genesis shows how everlasting life was lost, while the Book of Revelation reveals how everlasting life will be regained. As Psalms 37:9 and 29 declare, evil will be done away with, and those hoping in Jehovah will possess the earth. The righteous will live forever on it. Satan tried to make humans believe they could be like God, but that did not happen.

By understanding these biblical accounts, we can gain insight into the original intentions and the future possibilities for humanity. The lifespans of ancient times serve as a reminder of the impact of our choices and the potential for a more vibrant future.

For further questions about what our future holds, u27a1uFE0F, feel free to ask.