Genesis 5:30 - Longevity before Noah's birth?

Verse Context

The verse (Bereishit 5:30) describes the lifespan of Lemekh, the father of Noach, and his continued procreation after Noach's birth. This is part of the genealogical list in Perek 5, which traces the lineage from Adam to Noach.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Bereishit 5:30) notes that the Torah emphasizes Lemekh's lifespan "after he begot Noach" to contrast it with the earlier generations. Unlike his ancestors who had other children before their primary heir (e.g., Shet begot Enosh after living 105 years), Lemekh had Noach first, and only afterward had other children. This hints that Noach was his primary focus, as he was the righteous one who would survive the Mabul (Flood).

Midrashic Insights

• Midrash Tanchuma (Bereishit 11): Lemekh named his son "Noach" (from the root נ.ח., meaning "rest") because he prophesied that through Noach, the world would find rest from the curse of the land (Bereishit 5:29). The additional years granted to Lemekh after Noach's birth signify divine patience, allowing time for teshuvah before the Flood.
• Pirkei D'Rabbi Eliezer (22): Lemekh lived long enough to see Noach build the Teivah (Ark), reinforcing the idea that his extended lifespan was tied to Noach's mission.

Numerological Significance

The 595 years Lemekh lived after Noach's birth can be analyzed through gematria (though caution is advised with such interpretations). The number may allude to the period of warning before the Flood, as the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 30:7) states that Hashem granted 120 years for repentance (Bereishit 6:3). Some commentators suggest Lemekh's lifespan reflects the gradual decline of human longevity before the Flood.

Halachic Perspective (Rambam)

Rambam (Hilchos Teshuva 6:6) discusses how the extended lifespans before the Flood allowed people ample opportunity to repent. Lemekh's longevity, particularly after Noach's birth, underscores the principle that Hashem delays judgment to encourage teshuvah—a theme central to Noach's era.