Creation Days and Orthodox Jewish Tradition

In the book of Genesis, there is a description of the creation account that includes the story of how God created the world in six days. This account has been a topic of much discussion and interpretation, with different views on whether these "days" should be understood as literal 24-hour periods or metaphorical representations of longer periods of time. In this article, we will explore Orthodox Jewish tradition and its perspective on the creation days as literal days.

The Importance of Jewish Oral Tradition

Orthodox Jewish tradition places significant importance on the Talmud, which is the code of Jewish oral tradition interpreting the Torah or the Law of Moses. Compiled in the 5th century AD, the Talmud contains commentaries from Rabbinical scholars who have dedicated their lives to studying and understanding the Scriptures. These commentaries provide valuable insights into the interpretation of biblical texts.

Rabbi Abraham Ben Meir Ibn Ezra's Commentary

One prominent scholar whose commentary sheds light on the understanding of the creation days is Rabbi Abraham Ben Meir Ibn Ezra. Writing in the medieval period, he stated that "one day refers to the movement of the sphere." This indicates that Orthodox Jewish scholars had already addressed the objection that questions how the creation days could be literal before the sun was created. They understood the reference to "day" as a measurement of time based on the movement of celestial bodies.

Literal Interpretation by Rabbinical Scholars

A comprehensive study of various commentaries from Talmudic, Midrashic, and Rabbinic sources reveals that most Rabbis interpreted the creation days as literal 24-hour periods. These scholars analyzed each day of creation and attempted to understand specific events within each hour on the sixth day when Adam was created. While some of their interpretations went beyond what is stated in the text, their consensus was that the creation days should be understood as actual days.

Clarifying Misinterpretations

It is important to clarify some misinterpretations that have arisen regarding Orthodox Jewish tradition. Some have claimed that the Rabbis believed in thousand-year creation days, but this is not accurate. The Rabbis actually believed that each literal day of creation prophetically corresponded to a thousand years of history. This understanding was also shared by many early Church Fathers.

The Meaning of "Day" in Genesis 2:4

In Genesis 2:4, the phrase "in the day that the Lord God made earth and heaven" is used. Some have questioned whether this usage of "day" suggests a longer period of time. However, Orthodox Jewish scholars point out that the Hebrew word for "day" is prefixed with the preposition "be" (beyom), which serves as an idiom meaning "when" or "at the time when." This usage does not indicate an extended period but rather a specific moment in time.

A Prophetic Understanding of "Day"

The Talmud contains a prophetic understanding of a "day" as referring to the coming of the Messiah at the end of the world. However, this interpretation is unrelated to the creation account itself. The six thousand years mentioned in this context were calculated based on the understanding that each literal day of creation corresponded to a thousand years of history. This calculation aligns with the traditional Jewish belief in a straightforward understanding of the creation days and chronologies found in Genesis.

The Significance of Orthodox Jewish Tradition

Orthodox Jewish tradition has consistently upheld the interpretation of the creation days as literal days. This tradition aligns with a straightforward reading of the Hebrew Scriptures and rejects attempts to spiritualize or extend the meaning beyond its plain sense. Prominent Jewish scholars have affirmed this understanding, emphasizing that there is nothing in Genesis to justify departing from a natural day interpretation.

Why This Matters

The question of whether the creation days should be understood as literal days or symbolic periods of time has significant implications for how we interpret the biblical account of creation. Orthodox Jewish tradition provides valuable insights into the original understanding of the creation days, rooted in a rigorous study of the Scriptures and the Talmud. Understanding this perspective helps us engage with different interpretations and encourages us to consider the importance of maintaining fidelity to the text.

Think About It

Consider the significance of Orthodox Jewish tradition in shaping our understanding of the creation days. How does this perspective challenge or affirm your own beliefs about the interpretation of Genesis? Reflect on how different interpretations can shape our understanding of the biblical account and its implications for our faith.