Adam and Eve

One of the central features of creation stories in most cultures is a description not only of the genesis of the cosmos but also of the appearance of the first human beings. Such stories often serve etiological purposes, explaining the origin of the different forms and characteristics of human beings. The Biblical story of Adam and Eve is the most well-known and influential story of human creation and is often used as a “proof text” justifying particular values and models related to family, marriage, sexuality, and gender roles. Yet it is important to remember that creation stories are a form of religious myth. Their importance and meaning do not lie in the literal, historical accuracy of their details, and to focus on such issues misses the level on which their power and truth exists. The Adam and Eve story offers profound theological and psychological insights about human beings’ place in the world and their relationship to each other and to a transcendent dimension of reality....