Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Adam's exclamation is more than just a surprised utterance; it's a profound declaration of unity and identity. He recognizes her not as a separate creation, but as a literal extension of himself – "bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" – highlighting that their bond is fundamental to human existence. He names her "Woman," a word directly derived from "Man" in Hebrew, underscoring that her very being originates from and is intrinsically linked to him.
Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
After God created the animals and brought them to Adam to name, Adam found that none of them were suitable companions for him. So, God put Adam into a deep sleep, took one of his ribs, and formed a woman from it, then brought her to Adam. Adam's immediate reaction upon seeing her is a joyful recognition of their shared essence and purpose.
Adam’s first words after waking aren't just awe; they're a profound declaration of unity and identity. What makes his naming of Woman so significant?
When Adam sees Eve for the first time, his immediate response is to name her, but not just as a label. His words, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh,” are a declaration of profound connection.
Adam's naming of Eve isn't just about recognition; it's about establishing the very pattern for human relationship and partnership. What does this first 'we' reveal?
Adam's joyful exclamation isn't just a personal acknowledgment; it lays the groundwork for the concept of 'one flesh' that follows.
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This passage echoes Adam's sentiment of absolute purity and beauty, describing the beloved as having 'no flaw' and being entirely lovely, reflecting the perfection of the original creation before sin entered.
1 Corinthians 11:8-9The Apostle Paul directly references this Genesis passage, explaining that the man was not created for the woman, but the woman was created for the man's help, highlighting the foundational purpose of their union.
1 Corinthians 15:45This verse contrasts the 'first Adam' who became a 'living soul' with the 'last Adam' (Christ) who became a 'life-giving spirit,' drawing a parallel between the creation of humanity and the redemptive work of Christ that restores humanity.
Ephesians 5:28-31Paul expands on the 'one flesh' concept from Genesis, showing how the marital union between man and woman is a profound symbol of Christ's union with the Church, emphasizing deep intimacy and mutual care.
1 Timothy 2:13-14This passage further explains the order of creation, noting that Adam was formed first, and then Eve from him, as a reason for their roles, directly referencing the creation account in Genesis 2.
wesleyGenesis 2:23: "And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man."
2:23 And Adam said, this is now bone of my bones - Probably it was revealed to Adam in a vision, when he was asleep, that this lovely creature, now presented to him, was a piece of himself and was to be his companion, and the wife of his covenant - In token of his acceptance of her, he gave her a name, not peculiar to her, but common to her sex; she sh…
clarkeGenesis 2:23: "And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man."
Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, etc. - There is a very delicate and expressive meaning in the original which does not appear in our version. When the different genera of creatures were brought to Adam, that he might assign them their proper names, it is probable that they passed in pairs before him, and as they passed received their names. To…
Adam's exclamation is more than just a surprised utterance; it's a profound declaration of unity and identity. He recognizes her not as a separate creation, but as a literal extension of himself – "bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" – highlighting that their bond is fundamental to human existence. He names her "Woman," a word directly derived from "Man" in Hebrew, underscoring that her very being originates from and is intrinsically linked to him.
After God created the animals and brought them to Adam to name, Adam found that none of them were suitable companions for him. So, God put Adam into a deep sleep, took one of his ribs, and formed a woman from it, then brought her to Adam. Adam's immediate reaction upon seeing her is a joyful recognition of their shared essence and purpose.
After God created the animals and brought them to Adam to name, Adam found that none of them were suitable companions for him. So, God put Adam into a deep sleep, took one of his ribs, and formed a woman from it, then brought her to Adam. Adam's immediate reaction upon seeing her is a joyful recognition of their shared essence and purpose.
"Then the man said,
“This at last is bone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called Woman,
because she was taken out of Man.”" — Adam's exclamation is more than just a surprised utterance; it's a profound declaration of unity and identity. He recognizes her not as a separate creation, but as a literal extension of himself – "b…
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Last reviewed October 2026