Genesis day four:“Let there be lights”

Old Earth Creationists (OECs) interpret the creation narrative in Genesis 1 through a lens that harmonizes with scientific understanding about the age of the universe and Earth. This approach leads to interpretations that differ from the literal 24-hour day view held by Young Earth Creationists. One such interpretation concerns the creation of the sun, moon, and stars on Day 4 of creation.

Genesis 1:16 states: "And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also."

While a surface reading might suggest this verse describes the initial creation of these celestial bodies, OECs propose a nuanced understanding. They argue that Day 4 doesn't mark the creation of the sun and moon, but rather the point at which they became visible and functional from Earth's perspective.

This interpretation rests on the idea that Earth, in its early stages, possessed a dense, opaque primordial atmosphere. This atmosphere, rich in dust and water vapor, would have shrouded the planet, blocking sunlight and obscuring the stars.

Evidence Supporting this View:

• Scientific understanding of early Earth: Geological and atmospheric studies suggest that early Earth's atmosphere was significantly different than it is today. Volcanic activity and asteroid impacts would have released massive amounts of material into the atmosphere, creating a thick haze.

• Job 38:9: This verse describes Earth as being "wrapped in thick darkness," providing biblical support for the concept of an obscured early Earth.

• The Hebrew word "asah": While often translated as "made" or "created," the Hebrew word "asah" can also mean “let them shine forth.” This allows for the interpretation that God fashioned the roles of the sun and moon on Day 4, rather than creating them anew.

God didn't create the sun, moon, and stars ex nihilo (Barah- out of nothing) at that point. Instead, He "let them shine forth" or "appointed them to their roles" by removing the obscuring primordial atmosphere that had enveloped the Earth.

The Significance of Day 4

According to this OEC perspective, Day 4 marks a crucial turning point in Earth's development. As the primordial atmosphere gradually cleared, sunlight finally pierced through, illuminating the planet and enabling photosynthesis. The appearance of the sun and moon also established the rhythm of day and night, providing a framework for life to flourish.

This interpretation aligns with the overall narrative of Genesis 1, which depicts a progressive ordering of creation. God doesn't create everything at once but works in stages, preparing the Earth for life and culminating in the creation of humanity.

Addressing Potential Objections:

Some might argue that this interpretation contradicts a literal reading of Genesis. However, OECs contend that a literalistic approach can sometimes miss the deeper meaning and intent of the text. They emphasize that the Bible uses figurative language and phenomenological descriptions (describing things as they appear from human perspective) throughout.

Furthermore, this interpretation doesn't diminish God's creative power. It simply recognizes that God may have used natural processes over long periods to shape the universe and Earth. This perspective highlights God's wisdom and sovereignty in orchestrating creation through a combination of miraculous acts and natural laws.

Reconciling Faith and Science:

The OEC interpretation of Genesis 1:16 offers a way to reconcile the biblical creation account with scientific discoveries about the age of the universe and Earth. By understanding Day 4 as the time when the sun and moon became visible and functional, rather than their initial creation, OECs can maintain a high view of Scripture while embracing scientific knowledge. This approach allows them to appreciate both the divine revelation of the Bible and the insights gained through scientific inquiry.

Conclusion:

The OEC interpretation of Genesis 1:16 provides a thoughtful and compelling way to understand the creation narrative in light of scientific evidence. It emphasizes the progressive nature of creation, the role of natural processes, and the importance of interpreting Scripture in a way that honors both its divine authority and the insights of science. This approach allows Christians to embrace both faith and reason, seeing God's hand at work in both the miraculous and the mundane aspects of creation.