Overlived
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The term "overlived" is not commonly found in modern English translations of the Bible, but it can be understood in the context of biblical genealogies and the lifespans of the patriarchs. In the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of "overliving" can be inferred from the accounts of individuals who lived significantly longer than others, often surpassing the typical human lifespan as we understand it today.

Biblical Context

In the early chapters of Genesis, we find detailed genealogies that record the ages of the patriarchs, many of whom lived for several centuries. This extraordinary longevity is a distinctive feature of the antediluvian (pre-Flood) world. For example, Genesis 5 provides a list of patriarchs from Adam to Noah, with lifespans ranging from several hundred to over nine hundred years.

Key Figures

1. Methuselah: Methuselah is perhaps the most famous example of someone who "overlived" in the biblical narrative. According to Genesis 5:27 , "So Methuselah lived a total of 969 years, and then he died." Methuselah's lifespan is the longest recorded in the Bible, and his life extended until the year of the Flood, making him a significant figure in the antediluvian world.

2. Noah: Noah is another patriarch who experienced an extended lifespan. Genesis 9:29 states, "So Noah lived a total of 950 years, and then he died." Noah's life spanned both the pre-Flood and post-Flood eras, marking a transition in human history and God's covenantal relationship with humanity.

3. Adam: The first man, Adam, also lived a notably long life. Genesis 5:5 records, "So Adam lived a total of 930 years, and then he died." Adam's extended lifespan is significant as it represents the initial period of human existence and the direct consequences of the Fall.

Theological Implications

The extended lifespans of these patriarchs have been the subject of much theological reflection and debate. From a conservative Christian perspective, these long lifespans are often understood as literal, reflecting a unique period in human history when the effects of sin and the curse had not yet fully manifested in the human condition. The gradual decline in lifespans after the Flood, as seen in the genealogies of Genesis 11, is viewed as indicative of the increasing impact of sin and the changing conditions of the world.

Symbolic and Prophetic Significance

The concept of "overliving" also carries symbolic and prophetic significance. The longevity of the patriarchs can be seen as a testament to God's original design for humanity, which was intended for eternal communion with Him. The eventual reduction in human lifespans serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

In summary, while the term "overlived" is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept is richly illustrated through the genealogies and lifespans of the early patriarchs. These accounts provide insight into the early history of humanity, the effects of sin, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
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Covenanting Performed in Former Ages with Approbation from Above.
... which he gave to them to serve Him, and consequently to keep that covenant all the
days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua.[753]. ...
/.../the ordinance of covenanting/chapter xii covenanting performed in.htm

The Historical Books.
... He may well have been one of the elders who overlived Joshua, since at the time
of his writing Rahab was yet living among the Israelites. Chap.6:25. ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

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Overlived (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Overlived (1 Occurrence). Joshua 24:31 And Israel
served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days ...
/o/overlived.htm - 6k

Overlays (1 Occurrence)

/o/overlays.htm - 6k

Over-long (1 Occurrence)
Over-long. Overlived, Over-long. Overlook . Multi-Version Concordance
Over-long (1 Occurrence). ... (BBE). Overlived, Over-long. Overlook . Reference
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Concordance
Overlived (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 24:31
And Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua, and which had known all the works of the LORD, that he had done for Israel.
(KJV)

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Overlived

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