Genesis 5:29
And he called his name Noah, saying, This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed.
Genesis 5:29
Noah’s father, Lamech, names him with a hopeful theological statement: “This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed.” In Genesis 3, the ground is cursed due to sin; this verse expresses a longing for relief from toil and a return to fruitful labor. The name Noah itself carries weight in Hebrew—often connected to relief or rest. The cultural setting shows a desperate humanity under the curse, seeking relief through progeny who might bring redemption. The phrase “comfort us” signals a cry for deliverance from the human condition’s burden, not just personal relief but communal restoration. The historical note that the ground is cursed connects to the broader narrative arc of Genesis 3–9, where sin disrupts harmony, and God’s rescue plan begins to take shape in Noah’s generation.
Noah’s naming marks a crucial pivot: salvation will come by a vessel in whom faith is found. This verse foregrounds the grace motif that threads through Scripture—God’s initiative to bring relief in the midst of human failure. It foreshadows the ark as a means of salvation and the restoration of creation. Theologically, Noah embodies the faithful remnant who trust God even in a world that has largely rejected Him. The verse links human labor, divine judgment, and future redemption, reminding readers that God’s mercy often enters through unlikely channels and ordinary births.
Practical takeaway: find hope in God’s promises even when work feels burdensome. In a world of toil—whether in physical labor, parenting, or ministry—remember that God can use faithful, obedient steps to bring relief and renewal. Encourage families by naming and praying for hopes that align with God’s redemptive purposes. Build resilience by cultivating spiritual rest and Sabbath rhythms to counteract toil’s weariness. Recognize that your ordinary acts—honoring work, caring for creation, and loving neighbors—may participate in God’s larger plan of restoration.
Cross-References: Genesis 6:8; Genesis 7:1; Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 11:6-9; Hebrews 11:7