Genesis 6:3 - Divine patience wanes.

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

• Divine Patience: Hashem grants opportunities for repentance before executing judgment (Rashi, Ramban).
• Human Frailty: The verse underscores mankind's susceptibility to corruption when dominated by physical desires (Talmud Sanhedrin, Midrash).
• Moral Accountability: The limitation of years serves as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked sin (Sforno).