Overview

Genesis 3-5 continues the primeval history with a clear division between J Source narrative material and P Source genealogical frameworks:

  • Genesis 3: J Source - The Fall narrative
  • Genesis 4:1-26: Mixed J Source with genealogical material
  • Genesis 5:1-32: P Source - Systematic genealogy from Adam to Noah

Genesis 03 (Text Analysis)


Genesis 04 (Text Analysis)


Genesis 05 (Text Analysis)


Comparative Analysis

Source Characteristics

AspectJ Source (Gen 3-4)P Source (Gen 5)
Divine NameYHWH / YHWH ElohimElohim
Literary StyleNarrative, dramaticSystematic, formulaic
Content FocusHuman relationships, moralityGenealogy, chronology
God’s CharacterAnthropomorphic, personalTranscendent, formal
Theological EmphasisSin, judgment, graceOrder, blessing, continuity

Genealogical Parallels

  • Cain’s Line (J): Cain → Enoch → Irad → Mehujael → Methushael → Lamech
  • Seth’s Line (P): Seth → Enosh → Cainan → Mahalalel → Jared → Enoch → Methuselah → Lamech → Noah

Name Correspondences

J Source (Cain’s Line)P Source (Seth’s Line)
CainCainan
EnochEnoch
MehujaelMahalalel
MethushaelMethuselah
LamechLamech

Theological Themes

J Source Themes

  • Progressive Corruption: From disobedience to murder to violence
  • Divine Grace: Protection of Cain, provision of Seth
  • Cultural Development: Technology alongside moral decline
  • Worship Origins: Beginning of sacrifice and calling on YHWH

P Source Themes

  • Divine Image Continuity: Image transmitted through generations
  • Blessed Longevity: Long lifespans in early generations
  • Ordered Succession: Systematic generational progression
  • Chronological Framework: Precise dating system

See also: Fall Theology, Cain and Abel, Antediluvian Chronology, Divine Image, Violence in Scripture