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Abstract:
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In an attempt to clarify some of the mystery associated with the story of creation, I offer a hermeneutic approach to the first four chapters of the book of Genesis. The complexities of the scripture's meaning can never be wholly comprised through a literal reading of the text. Much of its message is conveyed through symbolism, allegory, and metaphor. Therefore, a close examination of the ancient Hebrew language is necessary in order to approach a more accurate interpretation. Moreover, identifying the intersection between ancient history (here, the history of ancient Mesopotamia) and biblical history/literature remains paramount.
This interpretation makes use of various biblical translations, works by theologians, and works and translations of myths from original languages by historians of ancient Assyria, Sumeria, and Babylonia. The story of creation is rich and offers ideas regarding relationship in all its forms, moral freedom, equality between the sexes, and human value, as well as exhortations against the exploitation of the natural world and the advent of civilization. |
