Longevity
☩Patriarchal Longevity
The pre-flood patriarchs lived remarkably long lives: Adam 930 years, Methuselah 969 years (Genesis 5). After the flood, lifespans gradually decreased. The reasons for pre-flood longevity remain debated—some attribute it to different environmental conditions, others to divine providence in establishing the human race. By Moses' time, the normal lifespan was 'threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years' (Psalm 90:10).
☩Long Life as Blessing
Long life is presented as a reward for covenant faithfulness: 'Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long' (Exodus 20:12). Wisdom personified promises, 'Length of days is in her right hand' (Proverbs 3:16). God promised David's line would endure (2 Samuel 7:16). Yet godly people sometimes die young, and the wicked sometimes live long—Scripture also looks beyond this life to eternal reward.
Related Verses56 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Longevity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. V (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Longevity," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. III (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).