What Is the Prophecy in Genesis 3:15?

Jul 10,2025 00:00

What Is the Prophecy in Genesis 3:15?

Genesis 3:15 is often referred to as the "Protoevangelium," meaning the first gospel or first good news. It is a significant prophecy found in the Bible, marking the first promise of redemption after humanity's fall into sin.

Context of Genesis 3:15

After Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating from the forbidden tree, God pronounced consequences. In this verse, God speaks to the serpent (commonly understood as Satan) and declares a future conflict between the serpent and the woman's offspring.

The Content of the Prophecy

     
  • Enmity between the serpent and the woman: There will be ongoing hostility between the serpent and the woman.
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  • The offspring's victory: The woman's seed will crush the serpent's head, symbolizing ultimate defeat.
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  • The serpent's retaliation: The serpent will strike the offspring's heel, indicating suffering.

Significance of the Prophecy

This prophecy is viewed as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ’s victory over sin and Satan. While Christ would suffer (the "heel strike"), He would ultimately conquer evil (crushing the serpent's head), bringing salvation to humanity.

Conclusion

Genesis 3:15 serves as the Bible’s first glimpse of hope, promising a future Redeemer who would defeat evil. It forms a foundational prophecy for Christian theology about salvation and the battle between good and evil.

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