western civilization 1, week 1: the element of hierarchy in Genesis 1-3

According to the Webster Dictionary a hierarchy is “the classification of a group of people according to ability or to economic, social, or professional standing” or “a body of persons in authority”. In my own words a hierarchy are different levels of authority. In Genesis 1-3 God set up the first hierarchy.

The first time God set up a hierarchy is when he put mankind in charge of fish, bird, creature, plant, and tree. Mankind was only given dominion over the creation, not over people, meaning that we are not to have slaves and we are not suppose to mistreat other human beings. God created the earth and put mankind in charge of it so God is in charge and has authority over mankind.

In Genesis 2 God having authority over mankind gives mankind authority over the creation and garden. However according to Gods original hierarchy men have authority over their wives and women must submit to their husbands.

In Genesis 3 the serpent tricked Eve into eating of the tree that they were not suppose to eat from and by doing so they broke Gods rules. Because they broke Gods rules God punished Adam and Eve. In Genesis 3:16 as part of the judgement Eve will want to control her husband but Adam will dominant her. God has authority over mankind and men have authority their wives and over creation.