Contemporary African Relevance of the Genesis Creation Myth

Abstract

The book of Genesis contains two creation myths which have corollaries in the Igbo creation myth, as in other ethnic groups in Africa. This is particularly in the area of sanctity of life. The first Genesis creation mythexplicitly states that man was created in the image (Hebrew צֶלֶם ) of God, and after His likeness, (Genesis 1: 26-27). The second creation myth states that God formed man out of the dust of the ground and breathed into him the breath of life (that is, a part of Himself) and man became a living being (Genesis 2:7). In Igbo creation myth, the God, Chineke, created man with part of Himself. Here, the God, Igwe, and the Goddess, Ala, (both components of the creator God, Chineke) met and formed human beings, male and female. The significant points of convergence between the Genesis creation myths and the Igbo creation myth are first, that man was formed by the direct action of God (gods) and second, that man contains a component of God (gods). Mankind is not just a physical being that accidentally came into existence. Mankind was formed by God (gods) carrying a part of Himself (themselves). For this reason, life is highly revered in Igboland, as in all parts of Africa. This paper, therefore, examined human life and its sanctity as derivable from creation myths in Genesis and some Igho communities. The comparison is vital for the appreciation of life and its enhancement in Afro-Christian social milieu.