Old Testament
Genesis 3:5
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God knows that when you eat from it, your eyes will be opened, and you will be like gods, knowing good and evil.
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For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
What Genesis 3:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the serpent is tempting Eve by suggesting that eating the forbidden fruit will grant her wisdom and power. He implies that God is withholding something valuable from them. The promise of becoming like gods, knowing good and evil, is enticing. It plays on the desire for knowledge and autonomy. This moment marks a pivotal point in the story, where curiosity leads to disobedience. The idea of being 'like gods' suggests a false sense of control and understanding. Ultimately, this temptation leads to significant consequences for humanity, highlighting the dangers of seeking knowledge outside of God's guidance. It serves as a reminder of the importance of trust and obedience in our relationship with God, rather than succumbing to misleading promises. The allure of power and knowledge can lead us away from what is truly good for us, emphasizing the need for discernment in our choices and actions. This verse encapsulates the struggle between divine authority and human desire.
How to apply Genesis 3:5 to your life
When faced with tempting choices, remember that not all knowledge is beneficial. Seek guidance from trusted sources and reflect on the potential consequences of your actions. Prioritize your relationship with God over the allure of power or wisdom that leads you away from His path. Trust in His wisdom and timing for your life. Stay grounded in your values and beliefs to navigate life's challenges wisely. This will help you make choices that align with
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Adam's story: The Forbidden Fruit (Genesis 3:1–7)
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Adam
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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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Genesis 3:5
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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 3:5 mean?
Genesis 3:5 describes the serpent tempting Eve by claiming that eating the forbidden fruit will open her eyes and make her like God, knowing good and evil. This suggests that God is withholding knowledge and power from them, leading to a pivotal moment of disobedience.
What is the meaning of 'like gods' in Genesis 3:5?
The phrase 'like gods' in Genesis 3:5 implies a false promise of wisdom and autonomy. It reflects the temptation to seek knowledge and power independently from God, which ultimately leads to significant consequences.
What are the consequences of the temptation in Genesis 3:5?
The temptation in Genesis 3:5 leads to disobedience, resulting in significant consequences for humanity, including a loss of innocence and separation from God. It serves as a warning about the dangers of seeking knowledge outside of God's guidance.
How does Genesis 3:5 relate to trust in God?
Genesis 3:5 emphasizes the need for trust in God by illustrating how the allure of knowledge can lead to disobedience. It reminds us to prioritize our relationship with God over the temptation to seek power or wisdom that may lead us astray.
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