How do the many similarities with Babylonian creation stories affect our understanding of Genesis 1? What can we learn about mythology and oral tradition from these overlapping details?
Why do we tell creation stories? What larger cultural purpose do they serve?
Dr. Baden mentioned “the impact of translation” in this week’s video. As you reflect on this problem, how do the word choices in your translation impact the way you envision the creation narrative?
Applying the Text:
What do you think is the relationship between the science of creation and the story as recorded in Genesis? What problems, if any, does this present for your theological understanding of creation?
The “Image of God” is a common phrase in many communities. How has your own imagined image of God changed throughout your life? Do you agree with Dr. Collins that humanity represents God on Earth?
Does Genesis 1 inform the way you view gender equality in modern life? Should it inform our modern understanding of gender and gender equality?