Did Angels Cohabit? (Gen 6:1–4; Jude 1:6–7) -- By: David E. Olander

Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 22:64 (Spring 2018)
Article: Did Angels Cohabit? (Gen 6:1–4; Jude 1:6–7)
Author: David E. Olander


Did Angels Cohabit? (Gen 6:1–4; Jude 1:6–7)

David Olander

* David Olander, STM, Th.D., Ph.D., professor of biblical languages & theology, Tyndale Theological Seminary and Biblical Institute

There has been biblical controversy concerning angels (angelic beings) being able to cohabit with women. The controversy is normally in association with Genesis 6:1–4 and Jude 1:6–7. Many biblically conservative commentators and scholars have held to the position of angelic cohabitation (Gen 6:1–4). While there may be differences within these views, one predominant view seems to be that angels did cohabit in Genesis 6:1–4.

Two primary passages will be presented concerning the possibility of angelic cohabitation: Genesis 6:1–4 and Jude 1:6–7. This writer’s purpose is not to present various views, but to present a contextual yet simple option. As all Scripture is God-breathed, all the biblical text is inerrant. Interpretation must be based on a literal, grammatical, and historical hermeneutic. Primary interpretation must begin and end with context, context, and then context.

Context Of Genesis 6:1–4

Genesis begins with God as the Creator of everything, and his creation as humanity knows it. He is the Author and Finisher of all creation and has revealed to man exactly what He did. From Genesis 1:1, God as the Creator has made it exceptionally clear what He wants man to know about Him and his creation. To read more into the biblical text than what is revealed is eisegesis and mere speculation. (God included the exact details He wants all men to know and understand.)

Genesis 1:1—2:25 is the biblical record of beginnings, primarily for the creation of man and man’s habitation (i.e. the earth). Genesis records nine beginnings and ten family histories.1 The earth as it is known was created to be inhabited by man and ruled by humanity.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2And the earth was formless and void, 2and darkness was over the surface of the deep; and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters [

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