Parashat Bereshit – Summary

Introduction

Parashat Bereshit recounts the early history of the world from its creation until Hashem's decision to destroy his creation due to the sins of mankind.
Creation – Chapter 1 and the first three verses of Chapter 2 gives a general overview of the different stages of creation.
Mankind – Most of Chapter 2 then focuses on the creation of man and woman (later Adam and Chavah) and their placement in Gan Eden. This provides the backdrop for the story of Chapter 3.
Sin and Punishments – Chapter 3 describes the sin of man eating from the Tree of Knowledge, the various punishments God meted out, and the ensuing expulsion from Gan Eden.
Kayin and Hevel – After introducing Kayin and Hevel (the sons of Adam and Chavah), Chapter 4 tells of their sacrifices, Hevel's murder, and Kayin's punishment and aftermath.
Genealogy – Chapter 5 lists the ten generations from Adam until Noach.
Prelude to Flood – The first eight verses of Chapter 6 describe society's deteriorating morality, including the enigmatic story of the "sons of God" marrying the "daughters of man".