Biblical accounts of Creation

In Genesis Chapter 1, God is said to have created the world in six days and rested on the seventh.
The process is described in a precise sequence: light and darkness first, then the sky, followed by land and plants, and finally animals and human beings.
Humans, both male and female, were created in God’s image. This suggests a special significance and value to human life.

The second account of creation in Genesis Chapter 2 offers a different perspective.
Here, it is suggested that man was created before plants and animals.
Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, are described in more detail. This signifies their superior position in the order of creation.

Many Christians interpret these accounts metaphorically rather than literally, viewing the seven days as symbolic.
The accounts signify core beliefs: the world was created by God, humans have a special place in this creation, and everything created by God is considered ‘good’.
The concept of “stewardship” emerges, the belief that humans have a responsibility to care for God’s creation.

Christians have different responses to scientific theories like evolution - some see no conflict, believing the accounts in Genesis are not literal.
The ‘Big Bang’ theory and Darwin’s theory of evolution challenge a literal reading of Genesis but could be viewed as describing the mechanisms by which God created.
Other Christians believe in ‘Creationism’, rejecting scientific theories in favour of a literal interpretation of creation as depicted in Genesis.

The belief in creation is reflected in Christian practises, e.g., Sabbath rest, reminding Christians that God rested on the seventh day.
The belief in stewardship inspires many Christians to take action for environmental conservation.
Some traditions perform creation-themed readings or hymns in worship.