The Truth About Adam and Eve's Fall: Beyond Defilement and Mortality

The concept of defilement and its role in the fall of Adam and Eve is often misunderstood. The scriptures are clear about the specifics of their fall and the changes it brought. This article aims to clarify those points, which are crucial for understanding biblical theology and ethics.

Understanding the Text

Matthew 15:11 states, 'What goes into the mouth does not defile a man, but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.' This verse is discussing the sanctity of beliefs and actions. It does not address the biblical account of the fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The fall of Adam and Eve is a separate, complex event.

The Bible and Adam and Eve

According to the scriptures, Adam and Eve were not defiled. The scriptures state that they transgressed the commandment to abstain from the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. This transgression was not about defilement or cleanliness, but about choice. Prior to this incident, they were not accountable for their actions because they lacked the necessary knowledge to make responsible choices.

The Change of Mortality

Before partaking of the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve's bodies were immortal as God warned. The act of consuming the fruit changed their bodies to mortal and hence subject to death. This change was a significant one and marked a pivotal point in their existence, making them accountable for their actions.

Appearance and Undefiled Nature

Adam and Eve appeared just like any humans do today, but in reality, they were not defiled at that time. Today, humans are born with a fallen nature, making them inherently defiled. The Jews practiced cleansing rituals because they understood the concept of defilement. Christians under the New Covenant are given a passover and trust in God's redemption, as they are considered unblemished or undefiled through their faith.

The Role of the Serpent

It was the serpent who beguiled Eve, a term that can be translated and understood from Hebrew and Greek. The serpent's tactics instigated the first humans to question and ultimately disobey the commandment. However, it is essential to note that Adam and Eve did not merely break the rules; Adam chose to eat the fruit intentionally, stepping out of divine will.

Theological Insights

The fruit of the forbidden tree did not directly cause the expulsion of the first humans from the Garden of Eden. While disobeying the commandment was the primary reason, God's concern was more about their potential to consume from the Tree of Life and become immortal, thus leading to a theological conversation about the nature of mortality and free will.

Conclusion

The fall of Adam and Eve was not about defilement. It was about breaking a commandment, which led to them becoming accountable and mortal. The Matthew verse is unrelated to this event and pertains to a different topic altogether. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of biblical theology and historical context.

Keywords: Adam and Eve, Defilement, Mortality, Serpent, Covenant