“That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.”
This verse is part of the account of the events leading up to the great flood in the time of Noah. To fully understand Genesis 6:2, it is helpful to consider the surrounding verses and the broader context of the chapter.
In Genesis 6:1-4, we find a peculiar description of a group referred to as “the sons of God” who took wives from among the daughters of men. This passage has been the subject of various interpretations and debates among scholars throughout history. Let’s explore some of the key interpretations:
Angelic Interpretation: One interpretation suggests that the “sons of God” mentioned in Genesis 6:2 refers to fallen angels who cohabited with human women, producing a hybrid race known as the Nephilim. Proponents of this view point to the mention of the Nephilim in Genesis 6:4 as evidence. This interpretation sees the actions of the “sons of God” as an act of rebellion against God’s created order.
Human Interpretation: Another interpretation posits that the “sons of God” refers to a godly line of Seth, the righteous descendants of Adam and Eve. According to this view, the “daughters of men” refer to the ungodly line of Cain. This interpretation sees the intermarriage between these two groups as a violation of the godly lineage and a decline in moral standards.
Dynastic Interpretation: Some scholars suggest that the term “sons of God” refers to rulers or powerful individuals who took multiple wives for political and social reasons. According to this view, the verse describes the powerful men of the time who used their authority to take any woman they desired as wives, disregarding moral boundaries.
It is important to note that the exact identity of the “sons of God” in Genesis 6:2 remains uncertain, and various interpretations exist. This verse has sparked curiosity and discussion among scholars, theologians, and readers for centuries.
Regardless of the interpretation, Genesis 6:2 highlights a state of moral decline and disregard for God’s intended order. The subsequent verses go on to describe God’s response to this situation, which ultimately leads to the decision to bring the flood as a means of judgment and the preservation of Noah and his family.
Studying Genesis 6:2 reminds us of the importance of maintaining moral standards, obeying God’s commands, and being mindful of the consequences of our actions. It also encourages us to seek wisdom and guidance from trusted sources when interpreting challenging passages of Scripture.
