Old Testament

Genesis 5:16

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

After Jared was born, Mahalalel lived another 830 years and had other sons and daughters.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And Mahalaleel lived after he begat Jared eight hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters:

What Genesis 5:16 means

Plain-English insight for readers

Mahalalel was a significant figure in the lineage of humanity, living for a remarkable 830 years after the birth of his son Jared. This long life allowed him to experience many generations, as he had other sons and daughters during this time. The mention of his extended life highlights the importance of family and legacy in this early biblical narrative. Mahalalel's life serves as a reminder of the continuity of human existence and the passing down of values and traditions through generations. Each child born represents a new opportunity for growth and connection. The text emphasizes that life is not just about individual achievements but also about the relationships we build and the impact we have on those who come after us. Mahalalel's story encourages us to reflect on our own families and the legacies we are creating for future generations, reminding us that our lives are intertwined with those of others, shaping the world in ways we may not fully understand. His long life symbolizes the enduring nature of family ties and the importance of nurturing them.

How to apply Genesis 5:16 to your life

Consider the relationships in your life and how they shape your identity. Reflect on the legacy you want to leave for future generations. Take time to nurture your family connections, as they are vital for personal growth and community strength. Remember, your life influences those who come after you, so make it count. Embrace the journey of building meaningful relationships today.

Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Genesis 5:16

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Genesis 5:16

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 5:16 tell us about Mahalalel's life?

Genesis 5:16 reveals that Mahalalel lived for 830 years after the birth of his son Jared. This long lifespan allowed him to have other sons and daughters, emphasizing the importance of family and legacy in the early biblical narrative. It highlights how Mahalalel's life was intertwined with his descendants, showcasing the continuity of human existence.

Why is Mahalalel's long life significant in the Bible?

Mahalalel's long life is significant as it reflects the early biblical theme of longevity and the importance of family lineage. His 830 years of life allowed him to witness multiple generations, which underscores the value of relationships and the impact one can have on future generations. This narrative serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of family ties.

How can we apply the lessons from Mahalalel's story today?

Mahalalel's story encourages us to reflect on our own family relationships and the legacies we are creating. We can apply these lessons by nurturing our connections with loved ones, understanding that our actions and values influence future generations. Taking time to build meaningful relationships can strengthen our communities and ensure that we leave a positive impact.

What themes are present in Genesis 5:16?

Genesis 5:16 presents themes of family legacy, the significance of long life, and the generational impact of our actions. It emphasizes the continuity of existence and the importance of relationships, reminding us that our lives are interconnected and that we play a role in shaping the future through our families.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.