How should we approach Genesis

[Pathway2]

How should I approach Genesis? should it all be taken literary or not Metaphorically?Anything else? what does it mean to us now?

 

[TheOldColonel]

It’s a theology book… not a history book. Look for the theological truths the details offer.

 

[Gorgias]

How should I approach Genesis?

As the Word of God.

should it all be taken literary or not Metaphorically?

It’s a long book, with narratives that span multiple ages and cultures. It would be irresponsible to presume that there’s only one genre of literature there.

Anything else?

Scripture scholars tell us that the form of chapter 1 is “epic poem”. The catechism tells us that the narrative of the ‘fall of man’ is written in figurative language. As we proceed deeper into the book, we encounter characters who are generally perceived as being historical figures (although some readers doubt their historicity).

what does it mean to us now?

God created everything out of nothing. It was all good. Humans sinned, and fell from grace. They started working their way back to God (or, more appropriately, God started bringing them back to Himself!), but it’s a long haul. God had a plan for restoring humanity to eternal life.

That’s a pretty good 10,000-foot summary, I’d say.

 

[ziapueblo]

I think it’s also important to read Genesis in light of the Liturgy.

For example:

Peace,

ZP

 

[Crocus]

Can I quote you on that summary? Regardless, I’m cutting it out and pasting to inside front cover of my bible.

 

[Gorgias]

Can I quote you on that summary?

Sure! It’s just a high-level, general summary, though!

Thanks!