Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Torah list the ages of people like Mahalalel?
A: The Torah lists the ages of the early generations to show the gradual decrease in human lifespan before the Flood, teaching us about the consequences of humanity's moral decline (Rashi on Genesis 5). These long lifespans also allowed for the transmission of early traditions from Adam to later generations (Ramban on Genesis 5:4).
Q: What does Mahalalel's name mean?
A: Mahalalel means 'the praise of G-d' (from 'mahalal' - praise, and 'El' - G-d). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 23:3) explains that he was given this name because he recognized and praised G-d's greatness, unlike the idolatrous ways that became common in his generation.
Q: Why does the verse end with 'and he died'?
A: The phrase 'and he died' appears for each generation in this chapter to emphasize that despite their extraordinarily long lives, death came to all - showing that mortality is an inevitable part of human existence (Talmud Sanhedrin 38a). This contrasts with Enoch, who 'walked with G-d' and didn't experience a normal death.
Q: How could people live so long in those times?
A: Traditional Jewish sources explain that before the Flood, the world's physical and spiritual conditions were different, allowing for longer lifespans (Ramban on Genesis 5:4). After the Flood, human longevity decreased significantly, as seen in later generations (Genesis 11). The Zohar teaches that early generations had stronger life forces from the original creation.
Q: What can we learn from Mahalalel's life?
A: Though we know little about Mahalalel specifically, his inclusion in the genealogy teaches that every individual has significance in the chain of tradition. The Sages note that he lived during a time of moral decline yet maintained his righteousness (Seder Olam Rabbah). His name reminds us to constantly praise G-d despite surrounding influences.
Understanding the Lifespan of Mahalalel
The verse states: "And all the days of Mahalalel were eight hundred and ninety-five years, and he died" (Genesis 5:17). This passage appears in the genealogy of Adam, listing the generations before the Flood. The unusually long lifespans of these early generations invite deeper analysis from traditional Jewish sources.
Rashi's Commentary on Mahalalel's Lifespan
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) notes that Mahalalel lived 895 years, which is shorter than the lifespans of his ancestors (e.g., his father Kenan lived 910 years). Rashi explains that this shortening of years reflects the gradual decline in human longevity as the world moved further from the pristine state of Creation. This idea is echoed in the Talmud (Sanhedrin 69b), which discusses how lifespans diminished over generations.
The Significance of Mahalalel's Name
Mahalalel's name means "the praise of God" (from mahalal, praise, and El, God). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 23:3) connects his name to his righteousness, suggesting he was among those who recognized and praised Hashem in a generation that was beginning to stray from divine service. His lifespan, though shorter than his predecessors, still reflects a time when tzaddikim (righteous individuals) lived exceptionally long lives.
The Pattern of Generational Decline
Rambam (Maimonides) in Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed 2:47) discusses the natural order of the world and suggests that the extended lifespans before the Flood were a unique phenomenon, not to be expected in later generations. The gradual reduction in years—from Adam (930 years) to Noah (950 years)—indicates a shift in the world's spiritual and physical state.
Mahalalel in the Chain of Tradition
Pirkei Avot (5:2) lists Mahalalel as part of the unbroken chain of transmission from Adam to Noah, emphasizing his role in preserving divine knowledge. Though his lifespan was shorter, his righteousness ensured the continuity of Torah wisdom. The Zohar (1:56b) further highlights that these early generations had a unique spiritual capacity, which allowed them to live longer in service of Hashem.
Lessons from Mahalalel's Death
The phrase "and he died" appears consistently in this genealogy, teaching that even the most righteous are subject to mortality. The Talmud (Berachot 17a) reflects on this, noting that death is a universal decree, but a righteous life ensures eternal merit. Mahalalel's death reminds us of the fleeting nature of physical life and the enduring value of spiritual legacy.