Genesis 3 narrates one of the most pivotal moments in the Bible, often referred to as “The Fall of Man.” It begins with the serpent, described as crafty, engaging Eve in a conversation about God’s command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The serpent challenges God’s word, suggesting that eating the fruit will not lead to death but will make Eve and Adam like God, knowing good and evil.

Eve, persuaded by the serpent, takes the fruit and eats it, then gives some to Adam, who also eats. Immediately, their eyes are opened, and they realize they are naked, feeling shame for the first time. They sew fig leaves together to cover themselves and hide from God when He walks in the garden.

When God questions Adam and Eve, Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent. As a result, God pronounces judgments: the serpent is cursed to crawl on its belly, enmity is placed between the serpent and humanity, Eve is told that childbirth will be painful, and her desire will be for her husband, who will rule over her. Adam’s punishment is that the ground will be cursed, and he will toil in it for food until he returns to dust.

The chapter ends with God banishing Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden to prevent them from eating from the tree of life and living forever in their fallen state. God places cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the way to the tree of life.

Genesis 3 sets the foundation for themes of sin, disobedience, and redemption that run throughout the Bible. It explores the consequences of straying from God’s commandments, introducing death, suffering, and separation from God, yet hinting at future hope through the promise of salvation.

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