(Bereshit / Genesis 2–3)
The story of the Garden of Eden is one of the most well-known stories in the Torah. In Jewish tradition, it is not meant to be read only as history, but as a teaching about what it means to be human.
A World of Balance
The Garden of Eden represents a world in perfect balance. Adam and Eve have food, safety, and closeness to God. There is no hunger, no hard labor, and no fear. In Judaism, this teaches us that the world was created good, and that God desires harmony for humanity.
Why Is There a Forbidden Tree?
God allows Adam and Eve to eat from every tree except one — the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Jewish sages ask: Why place the tree there at all?
The answer is that free will is essential. Without choice, humans could not grow spiritually. The garden teaches that real goodness comes not from obeying automatically, but from choosing wisely.
Knowledge and Responsibility
When Adam and Eve eat from the tree, they gain awareness — not just knowledge, but moral understanding. They become aware of shame, responsibility, and consequences.
Judaism does not teach that humanity became sinful forever. Instead, this moment marks the beginning of human maturity. Life becomes more difficult, but also more meaningful.
Leaving the Garden
Being sent out of the Garden of Eden is not only a punishment — it is also a mission. Outside the garden, humans must work the land, build families, and create justice.
The Torah teaches that God wants humans to be partners in creation, improving the world through effort, kindness, and mitzvot.
Eden Is Not Lost Forever
In Judaism, Eden is not something we are meant to return to physically. Instead, we are meant to re-create its values in the world we live in now — through compassion, fairness, and caring for others.
Every act of goodness brings a small piece of Eden back into the world.
The Message for Us
The Garden of Eden teaches us that:
l God created the world with goodness and purpose
l Humans are capable of choice and growth
l Even when we make mistakes, we are not rejected — we are guided forward
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