The number 120 appears in the Bible in connection with human life expectancy, but what does it really mean? Some see it as a symbolic number, while others take it more literally. If you’re curious about how the Bible talks about life spans and the significance of 120 years, let’s explore the biblical context and what this number might represent.
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What Does The Bible Say About 120 Years
Genesis 6:3
“Then the LORD said, ‘My Spirit will not contend with humans forever, for they are mortal; their days will be a hundred and twenty years.'”
This verse highlights that humans’ lifespan was limited to a maximum of 120 years. It shows the consequences of sin and God’s decision to set a limit on human mortality. It reminds us of our mortality and the importance of making the most of the time we have on earth.
Genesis 25:7
“Abraham lived a hundred and seventy-five years.”
Abraham’s lifespan of 175 years emphasizes that even though the maximum age limit was set at 120 years, God’s grace can still allow individuals to live beyond that. It shows that God is not bound by human limitations and has the power to extend life beyond what is expected.
Genesis 29:18
“Jacob was in love with Rachel and said, ‘I’ll work for you seven years in return for your younger daughter Rachel.'”
In this context, Jacob’s offer to work for Laban for seven years reflects the importance of time in our lives. It serves as a reminder that time cannot be wasted and that we should make purposeful decisions regarding our relationships, work, and commitments.
Genesis 47:28
“Jacob lived in Egypt seventeen years, and the years of his life were a hundred and forty-seven.”
Jacob’s extended lifespan to 147 years after moving to Egypt showcases God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It reminds us that despite life’s challenges, God can bless and prolong our lives, allowing us to fulfill His plans and purposes.
Deuteronomy 34:7
“Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone.”
Even at 120 years old, Moses’ physical vitality remained, demonstrating God’s sustaining power. This verse serves as a reminder that if we rely on God, He can grant us strength and vitality, defying the limitations typically associated with old age.
Psalm 90:10
“Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.”
This verse acknowledges the brevity of human life, suggesting that the average life span is around 70 to 80 years. It encourages us to prioritize a life of purpose, recognizing that earthly life is fleeting and filled with challenges.
Psalm 91:16
“With long life, I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
God promises to satisfy those who trust in Him with long life, demonstrating His ability to provide for and protect His people. This verse offers comfort and assurance that God’s salvation extends to all aspects of our lives, including our longevity.
Psalm 139:16
“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
This verse speaks of God’s intimate knowledge of each individual’s life, including the number of days they will live. It reminds us that our lives have purpose and are part of God’s divine plan. It encourages us to trust in Him and seek to fulfill His purposes for our lives.
Isaiah 65:20
“Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; the one who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere child; the one who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed.”
In a future state of restoration, this verse promises a time where people will have longer life spans. It presents a picture of a world where even living to 100 years old will be seen as premature. It paints a vision of a redeemed creation where age-related limitations will be diminished.
Proverbs 3:1-2
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.”
This verse underscores the connection between obedience to God’s commands, wisdom, and a prolonged life. It suggests that following God’s ways leads to a life filled with peace, prosperity, and extended years. It encourages us to prioritize God’s teachings in our lives.
Proverbs 9:11
“For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of wisdom in leading a long and fulfilling life. It indicates that making wise choices and seeking understanding can result in an extended lifespan. It encourages us to pursue wisdom and apply it to our daily decisions.
Proverbs 10:27
“The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.”
This verse highlights the correlation between reverent obedience to God and a lengthened life. It implies that those who fear the Lord and live according to His ways will experience greater longevity. It serves as a reminder of the blessings that come from living in alignment with God’s principles.
Proverbs 16:31
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”
This verse recognizes the beauty and honor associated with old age. It suggests that living a righteous life is often accompanied by wisdom and maturity. It encourages us to value and respect the elderly, acknowledging the wisdom that comes with age.
Proverbs 20:29
“The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.”
This verse contrasts the strength of youth with the honor and wisdom that comes with old age. It highlights how aging can bring a special kind of beauty and respect that surpasses physical strength. It encourages intergenerational respect and appreciation.
Ecclesiastes 7:17
“Do not be over wicked, and do not be a fool—why die before your time?”
This verse admonishes against engaging in excessive wickedness or foolishness that could potentially cut short one’s life. It implores us to make wise choices and avoid behaviors that can lead to premature death. It serves as a reminder of the importance of pursuing a life of righteousness.
Ecclesiastes 8:12
“Although a wicked person who commits a hundred crimes may live a long time, I know that it will go better with those who fear God, who are reverent before him.”
This verse recognizes the paradox that, although some wicked people may live long lives, it is ultimately better for those who fear God. It reaffirms the spiritual value of righteousness and obedience, which leads to a more fulfilling and blessed life in the sight of God.
Ecclesiastes 12:1
“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, ‘I find no pleasure in them.'”
This verse encourages young people to remember and honor God in their youth, emphasizing the importance of seeking Him early in life. It acknowledges that as we age, physical limitations and challenges may diminish our enjoyment, highlighting the significance of establishing a relationship with God from an early age.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
God’s plans for our lives include hope, prosperity, and a future. This verse reminds us that God has a purpose for each of us, regardless of our age or stage of life. It encourages us to trust in His plans and embrace the hope He offers.
John 11:25-26
“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
Jesus’ words affirm the eternal nature of life through belief in Him. They offer comfort, assuring us that even though we may physically die, our souls will live on in His presence. It invites us to ponder the profound truth of eternal life found in Jesus Christ.
John 14:1-2
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?”
Jesus’ assurance to His disciples underscores the promise of eternal life in heaven. It reminds us not to be troubled by the brevity of our earthly existence but to have faith in Christ’s promise of eternal dwelling in the presence of God. It offers hope and reassurance of our ultimate destination.
Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This foundational verse in the New Testament highlights the consequences of sin and the gift of eternal life obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. It contrasts the inherent mortality resulting from sin with the eternal life secured through Christ’s sacrifice. It emphasizes the importance of accepting God’s gift of salvation.
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
“Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”
Paul’s words anticipate the future transformation of believers at the coming of Christ. They offer hope for a glorified and imperishable existence beyond this earthly life. This verse reminds us of the promise of resurrection and the fulfillment of God’s ultimate plan for eternal life.
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
This verse encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective, recognizing that our present troubles are temporary in light of the eternal glory that awaits us. It assures us that our struggles and challenges have a greater purpose within the context of eternity, reminding us of the ultimate victory we have in Christ.
2 Peter 3:8
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.”
This verse encapsulates the timelessness of God and His perspective on time. It serves as a reminder that God’s plans and purposes are not limited by the constraints of human understanding. It encourages us to trust in His timing, knowing that what may seem like delays are insignificant in light of eternity.
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
The final book of the Bible presents a glimpse of the new heaven and new earth. This verse represents the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan, where death and all its accompanying sorrows will cease to exist. It offers hope and reassurance that eternal life in God’s presence will be free from suffering and pain.