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Genesis 2:15
“Yahweh God took the man, and put him into the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and to keep it.”
This verse is part of the second creation account in Genesis, which focuses more closely on humanity's role within creation. After forming the man, God places him in the Garden of Eden, giving him a specific task.
What does it mean for humans to 'cultivate' and 'keep' the earth responsibly in an age of global industry and interconnected consumption?
Then — the setting
This text comes from the earliest stratum of biblical literature, likely compiled and written down during or after the Babylonian exile (6th-5th centuries BCE), drawing on older traditions. It addresses an Israelite community, grounding their identity and purpose in God's creative act. The 'man' (Hebrew: 'adam) is initially a generic human, placed in a fertile garden. The concepts of 'cultivate' and 'keep' would have resonated deeply with an agrarian society, where the well-being of the community was directly tied to the health and productivity of the land. It set a foundational understanding of humanity's relationship with the natural world as one of active, careful engagement rather than passive enjoyment or unrestrained exploitation.
Across the Testaments
The Old Testament, particularly in its wisdom literature and prophetic books, frequently emphasizes the earth's intrinsic value as God's creation and warns against practices that harm it (e.g., land exploitation, pollution, injustice that leads to environmental degradation). This theme continues into the New Testament, though often reframed through the lens of redemption and the new creation. For example, Paul in Romans 8 speaks of creation 'groaning' and awaiting liberation alongside humanity, suggesting an interconnected destiny. While Genesis 2:15 establishes the initial mandate, the New Testament deepens the 'why' – our care for creation reflects our love for the Creator and our anticipation of the full restoration that Christ brings, extending 'keeping' beyond just physical maintenance to encompass the healing and flourishing of all things.
Keep thinking
Read alongside it
Describes humanity's delegated authority over creation.
Outlines practices for land rest and sustainable agriculture.
Connects creation's groaning with humanity's fallen state and future redemption.
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