In the Beginning (Gen 1): An Eco-Centred Epic

Abstract

Attempts to care for and secure the earth are not new in the sense of a discovery outside the category of time and space. Even the call of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ only reiterates the need to safeguard the earth. For instance, the African communitarian mindset, characterised by a deep spiritual connection to nature, the land, belief in totemism, and indigenous wisdom, has always offered substantial contributions to global ecological discourses.4 Also, the Hebrew creation accounts, alongside several ancient Mesopotamian cosmogonies, portray the Hebrew deity (Yhwh) as probably the first to be eco-conscious. Pope Francis seemed to be convinced of this view when he affirmed creation as a practical response to the cries of the earth and the cries of the poor.