As Genesis 3 ends, the final image is of cherubim with flaming swords guarding the entry back into Eden so that Adam and Eve cannot get back to the Tree of Life.
Isn't it interesting that the very first human action recorded as happening outside Eden is Adam and Eve having sex?
And it's not shameful or negative in any way. In fact, it's an act in obedience to God's will. They are following through with their original commission from God to "be fruitful and increase in number" (Gen 1:28).
The act is successful toward that end - Eve is immediately pregnant.
And when Cain is born, Eve seems full of wonder and gratitude, declaring "With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man!"
The Hebrew translated here as "with the help of" is actually a very short preposition typically meaning "with" and indicating close proximity.
Adam and Eve are banished from the Garden of Eden but God has not deserted them. As they start the first family, Eve at least recognizes that the Lord is playing a central role in their lives.
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