Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Genesis - Chapter 3 - Verse 16

3:16
Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

Meaning

Genesis 3:16 portrays the consequences that befell the woman as a result of the Fall in the Garden of Eden. The verse states that as a result of sin, women will experience increased pain during childbirth and throughout their lives. This pain is not only physical but also emotional and spiritual, representing the struggles and hardships that women will face as a result of sin entering the world. Additionally, the verse speaks to the relational dynamic between husbands and wives, stating that a woman's desire will be for her husband, and he shall rule over her. This has been interpreted to mean that there will be a natural desire for intimacy and connection between husbands and wives, but also a struggle for power and control within the relationship. Ultimately, this verse highlights the brokenness and difficulties that entered the world as a result of sin, while also pointing towards the need for redemption and restoration that can only come through Christ.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of Genesis 3:16, it is important to understand the implications of the consequences of the fall on women. The verse speaks of the sorrow and pain that women will experience in childbirth, reflecting the brokenness and suffering that entered the world as a result of sin. The mention of multiplying sorrow and conception highlights the physical and emotional toll of childbirth, indicating a departure from the original design of creation where pain did not accompany the miracle of birth. Additionally, the statement that a woman's desire will be for her husband and he shall rule over her has been interpreted in different ways. Some view this as a hierarchical relationship where the husband has authority over his wife, while others see it as a relational dynamic where the desire refers to a longing for intimacy and connection. Regardless of the interpretation, this verse underscores the far-reaching effects of sin on the relationship between men and women, pointing to the need for redemption and restoration through Christ.

Previous VerseNext Verse