The answer is: Lamech

Gen 5:28-29 - Lamech, son of Methuselah, not to be confused with Lamech, son of Methushael.

It's always intriguing to see how familial ties play such a vital role in the Bible. Noah’s father, Lamech, was part of that fascinating line of descendants going all the way back to Adam. Lamech is significant not just for fathering Noah but for his proclamation, as seen in Genesis 5:29, where he expresses hope that his son will bring comfort in a world burdened by toil.

Now, take a moment to think about the immense age of Lamech, who lived for 777 years! This theme of long life among the antediluvian (pre-flood) characters speaks volumes about the biblical archetypes of vitality, longevity, and even divine favor. Life spans drastically shortened after the Great Flood, whetting our curiosity: what do those guys really know that we don't today?

Another fun echo that connects Lamech and Noah is their names. “Lamech” is associated with “to be strong” or “powerful,” while Noah means “rest” or “comfort.” It’s fascinating how scriptures utilize names throughout biblical narratives to foreshadow these individual's purposes, sometimes mirroring their journeys in extraordinary ways.

Interestingly, during Noah's time, divine communication becomes more direct, as God laid out a covenant after the flood. But before that, here's Lamech sticking his neck out to herald a new beginning, seemingly aware that a dramatic change awaited mankind. Just consider how the story contrasts a former course with an unimaginable new world after the flood — and a family of eight closing a monumental chapter to begin anew!