Thoughts on Genesis: Myth and Legend

I've always liked reading Genesis and I think it's because of all the stories. The whole book is nothing but stories, no instruction like Paul's letters and no law like Leviticus. Just stories.

I've come to the conclusion that one of the worst things that has happened to our culture is that we've become intellectual. What I mean by that is, for example, when it comes to books it's either non-fiction or nothing at all. For some reason, we've come to the conclusion that fiction books are for entertainment purposes only. We can't learn anything from them, because they're not true.

My response to that, to the Christian, is; what about Genesis? Genesis is full of stories that are probably not what the modern or post-modern would call true. Very little of it is scientifically or historically true...but then again, the Bible isn't a history book or a science book now is it?

Does that devalue Genesis? I don't think so. I think there's still plenty to learn, not the least of which is to cut other cultures some slack if they happen to believe in myths like the ancient Greeks and Romans.

I spent the past weekend in D.C. with some friends and seeing all the monuments reminded me of all the stories and legends I've heard growing up about these U.S. American heros and I couldn't help but think of Israel's legends; those of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. The United States is no different the ancient Israel when it comes to romantisizing our heros. Actually, ancient Israel does a better job of making their forefathers seem more human, giving them many faults.

Am I saying that none of these stories are factually true? No, that's not my place to say, I'm not smart enough. I am saying that whether or not the stories are factually true isn't the point. Go deeper!