Old Testament
Genesis 3:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
To the woman he said, "I will greatly increase your pain and your conception; you will give birth in pain. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you."
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Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
What Genesis 3:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God addresses the woman after the fall into sin. He tells her that childbirth will be filled with pain, highlighting the struggles that will come with bringing new life into the world. This pain symbolizes the challenges and hardships that accompany motherhood. Additionally, God mentions that her desire will be for her husband, indicating a deep emotional connection, but also that he will have authority over her. This reflects a shift in relationships, where harmony is disrupted. The woman's role and experience will now be marked by both longing and struggle, illustrating the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of disobedience. This verse captures the essence of the human experience, where joy and pain often coexist, shaping our lives and relationships in profound ways. It serves as a reminder of the realities of life and the need for understanding and compassion in our interactions with one another, especially in the context of family and partnership.
How to apply Genesis 3:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge the complexities of relationships and the challenges that come with them. It reminds us to support one another through difficult times, especially in family dynamics. Understanding these struggles can foster empathy and strengthen our connections with loved ones, helping us navigate life's challenges together. Embrace the journey of life with compassion and patience for each other, recognizing that both joy and pain are part of the experience.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Adam's story: God's Judgment (Genesis 3:14–19)
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Genesis 3:16
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 3:16 mean?
Genesis 3:16 describes the consequences of sin for the woman, stating that childbirth will involve pain and that her relationship with her husband will change, highlighting both emotional desire and his authority over her.
What is the meaning of pain in childbirth in Genesis 3:16?
The pain in childbirth mentioned in Genesis 3:16 symbolizes the struggles and hardships that come with motherhood, reflecting the challenges women face in bringing new life into the world.
What does 'your desire will be for your husband' mean in Genesis 3:16?
This phrase indicates a deep emotional connection the woman will have towards her husband, but it also suggests a shift in dynamics where he will have authority over her, impacting their relationship.
How does Genesis 3:16 relate to family dynamics?
This verse highlights the challenges and authority dynamics within family relationships, reminding us that both joy and struggle are part of the human experience, especially in the context of motherhood and partnership.
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