Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 6:3 mean when it says 'My spirit shall not always strive on account of man'?
A: According to Rashi, this means that Hashem decided not to allow His Divine Presence (Shechinah) to remain among humanity indefinitely due to their wickedness. The 'striving' refers to Hashem's patience and forbearance, which would not last forever if people continued in their sinful ways.
Q: Why does Genesis 6:3 mention a 120-year limit for humanity?
A: The 120 years refer to the period of warning Hashem gave before bringing the Flood (as explained in Sanhedrin 108a). This was either the time left for repentance or the maximum lifespan humans would have afterward (Ramban). Some interpret it literally as a lifespan limit (Rashi).
Q: What does 'for that he also is flesh' mean in Genesis 6:3?
A: Rashi explains this means humans had become entirely physical and corrupt, focused only on bodily desires. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 26:5) states this refers to their immoral behavior, comparing them to animals who act only on physical instincts.
Q: How does Genesis 6:3 apply to us today?
A: This verse teaches that Hashem is patient but expects moral behavior. The Sforno notes it shows that when society becomes thoroughly corrupt, there are consequences. It reminds us to balance physical needs with spiritual growth, avoiding the mistakes of that generation.
Q: Did people really live only 120 years after this verse?
A: No, many lived longer (e.g., Avraham lived 175 years). The Talmud (Chullin 139b) explains this was a general decline in lifespan, not an absolute limit. Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:47) sees it as part of the natural order changing after the Flood.
Understanding the Divine Decree
The verse (Bereshit 6:3) states that Hashem declared His spirit would not "strive" (or "judge" — yadon) with man forever, due to humanity's corrupt nature. Rashi explains that this refers to the withdrawal of the Divine Presence (Shechinah) from mankind, as their wickedness had become overwhelming. The term beshagam ("for that he also is flesh") is interpreted by Rashi as meaning that man's nature is inherently frail and prone to sin, justifying Hashem's decision to limit human lifespan to 120 years before the Flood.
The 120-Year Reprieve
The Ramban (Nachmanides) elaborates that the 120 years mentioned were not an immediate reduction in lifespan but a period of divine patience before the Flood. This was a final opportunity for repentance, as noted in Midrash Tanchuma (Noach 5), which teaches that Hashem granted this extended timeframe to allow for teshuvah (repentance). The Sforno adds that this decree was specifically directed at the generation of the Flood, whose corruption had reached an intolerable level.
The Nature of "Flesh"
The phrase beshagam hu basar ("for that he also is flesh") is analyzed in Talmud Sanhedrin (108a), where the Sages explain that humanity had become entirely consumed by physical desires, neglecting spiritual growth. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 26:6) further emphasizes that their behavior was animalistic, devoid of moral restraint. This interpretation aligns with the Rambam's (Hilchot De'ot) teaching on the importance of balancing physical and spiritual pursuits.
Key Lessons from the Verse