The devil (Satan) told Eve, "You will not surely die." This was in direct contradiction to God's warning about eating the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
Context of the Deception
The conversation between Satan and Eve is recorded in Genesis 3. It's crucial to understand the progression of the deception:
- Questioning God's Word: Satan initially approached Eve by questioning God's commandment: "Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?" (Genesis 3:1). This created doubt and opened the door for further manipulation.
- Misrepresenting God's Character: Eve partially corrected Satan's statement, clarifying that they could eat from all the trees except one, but that God had said eating from that tree would result in death.
- Direct Contradiction: Then Satan delivered the core lie: "You will not surely die." (Genesis 3:4). He directly refuted God's warning, presenting a different outcome – immortality and enlightenment.
- Offering a False Promise: Satan continued, "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:5). He painted God as withholding something desirable, suggesting that disobedience would lead to greater knowledge and power.
Significance of the Statement
Satan's statement was a pivotal moment in the Fall of Humanity. By denying the consequences of disobedience, he tempted Eve to prioritize her own desires over obedience to God. The consequences of her choice, and Adam's choice to follow her, had lasting implications for all of humanity. It represents the first instance of direct contradiction of God's word and the temptation to believe in a self-serving lie over divine truth.
