Genesis 1:1-2 inform the reader of the creation of the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:3-31 gives the reader an outline of the six creative days and the basic events and creative activities on those days. Genesis 2:1-3 is some basics on the seventh day, while Genesis 2:4 is a summary verse of the whole six creative days. Genesis chapter 2:5-25 is a parallel account that picks up the account, not on the first day, but the third day (after the land comes on the scene, but prior to the creation of land plants), adding details. (2:5-6) This chapter is used to give more details about the human creation. For example, there is no simple statement that Adam was created; it adds that he was formed out of the dust of the ground, with the breath of life being blown into him, his becoming a living soul. (2:7) It informs of the planting of the Garden of Eden and placing Adam in it. (2:8) We learn of the growth of many trees for food, the tree of life, and the tree of knowledge of good and bad. (2:9) We are even given geographical sites that help the readers of Moses day, to know where the Garden of Eden was. (2:10-14) We are told of the work assignments given to Adam, to cultivate the Garden of Eden and to name the animals. (2:15, 19-20) We are informed of the prohibition of eating from the tree of knowledge of good and bad. (2:16-17) Then, we are informed that Adam grew lonely from his naming the animals, as he saw all of them had mates. (2:18, 20) From there the reader gets a detailed account of the creation of Eve (2:21-22), and Adam’s response, with the Jehovah, in essence, performing the first marriage. (2:23-25) Therefore, as you can see, chapter 1 is the barest of outlines, with chapter 2 giving us details about the arrival of the humans. Chapter 3:1-24 deals with the temptation of Eve by the serpent and the sinning of both Adam and Eve, with the terrible consequences of that willful rebellion.
Leave a Reply