Genesis 3:20
ESV
The man called his wife 's name Eve, because she was the mother of all living.
NIV
Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living.
NASB
Now the man named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all the living.
CSB
The man named his wife Eve because she was the mother of all the living.
NLT
Then the man — Adam — named his wife Eve, because she would be the mother of all who live.
KJV
And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.
NKJV
And Adam called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all living.
What does Genesis 3:20 mean?
Most people know of the first woman as "Eve." However, in the book of Genesis, it is not until this moment that the woman created from Adam's rib actually receives her name. Why Scripture chooses this particular moment to mention her name is not entirely clear. It's possible that this is meant to be part of a transition from the doom-and-gloom of the prior passage to a more positive tone. Despite all that's happened so far, this is truly a hopeful verse, especially following God's devastating curses on humanity. A future remains. God would continue to provide in some specific ways.The name Eve is literally the word "living" in Hebrew, haw'wāh, and is actually used only twice in the Old Testament: here and in Genesis 4:1. In giving her this name, Adam is looking forward to the generation of humans to come.
The following verses will show further proof of God's merciful love for mankind. Rather than destroying them, God provides clothing, and allows them the ability to live on, though in much less ideal circumstances.
