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Genesis Chapter 2 Analysis

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As we reflect upon Genesis Chapters 1 and 2 we observe two stylized forms of writing. Chapter 1 we see as an outline of the events of creation and chapter two we obtain details. 1. In chapter 1 a majestic God is speaking from his heavenly throne as he plans his creation. Chapter 2 however, appears to be an intimate relationship between God and humankind evidenced by the style of writing. 2.

As we review these two chapters it would appear that there are differences and maybe even contradictions. Many theologians believe that the creation story is actually two accounts of creation. They attributed chapter 1 to have been written by the Priestly “P” source, while chapter 2 is believed to have been written by the “J” source.

While this approach …show more content…

It is argued that the accounts conflict in that they reflect divergent concepts of deity, as well as mismatched records of the order of the creation events. 4.

Let us first examine the style of writing in each chapter. Professor Kenneth Kitchen of the University of Liverpool has noted that "stylistic differences are meaningless" (p 118). Kitchen has shown, on the basis of archeological evidence, that the "stylistic" theory simply isn't credible. For example, a biographical inscription of Uni, an Egyptian official who lived about 2400 B.C., reflects at least four different styles, and yet no one denies the unity of its authorship (p. 125).

It must be concluded that arguments for "two creation accounts" in Genesis, based upon subjective view of "style," are purely speculative and absolutely unconvincing.

In the 2nd item mentioned above let us discuss the divergent concept of deity. In Genesis 1, the Creator is a very 5. transcendent being, majestically and distantly bringing the creation into existence, while, on the other hand, in Genesis 2 He is characterized by anthropomorphisms, which imply an inferior status. For example, in Genesis 2 the writer says that Jehovah "formed," "breathed," "planted" etc., …show more content…

(1:8, 12; 2-1). 6. There is no validity in this argument, and one is not surprised that serious scholars have labeled it "illusory" (Kitchen, p. 118).

Another argument raised by critics is that Genesis 1 represents animals as existing before man (24-26), yet Genesis 2 has Adam created before the animals are formed (19). The Hebrew text of 2:19 merely suggests that the animals were formed before being brought to man; it says nothing about the relative origins of man and beast in terms of chronology. The critic is reading something into the text that simply isn't there.

Next let us examine Genesis 1 there is a broad outline of the events of the creation week, which reaches its climax with the origin of mankind --- in the very image of God. In Genesis 2 there is a special emphasis upon man, the divine preparation of his home, the formation of a suitable mate, etc.

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