A Story of Unity, Wisdom, and Purpose

Our True Purpose in Life is to take care of EARTH

We fulfill the divine plan set forth by our Creator when we honor our responsibility to nurture the world around us. Our actions, both big and small, contribute to the well-being of the Earth. Genesis chapters 2 and 3 reveal how God created woman, her connection to man, and their shared purpose in His plan. This story teaches us valuable lessons about unity, wisdom, and caring for our planet.

In Genesis 2, God says, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” To address this, He creates a “help meet” for him. God forms a woman from one of Adam’s ribs, showing that she is a part of him. Because of this bond, when a man loves and cares for his wife, he also cares for himself. They are one, created to support each other as equals and partners.

The Role of Man

From the beginning, God gives man a mission: to care for the Earth and all its creatures. In Genesis 2:15, God places Adam in the Garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it.” This isn’t just about tending plants or naming animals; it’s a calling to protect, nurture, and cultivate the world around him.

Man is also called to live in faith and obedience to God’s commandments. The guidance God provides to Adam and Eve is a reminder that wisdom and understanding come from God alone. He is called to care for his family, community, and environment. His actions should reflect a commitment to uphold God’s creations and to nurture the lives entrusted to him. This purpose extends to guiding future generations in principles of faith, integrity, and compassion, ensuring a godly legacy.

The Role of Woman

In this mission, women are created as helpers. Their presence and insights are invaluable. In Genesis 2:25, we learn that Adam and Eve were “naked and felt no shame.” This openness symbolizes a deep connection, encouraging intimacy and trust. Such closeness allows husbands to fulfill their divine purpose more effectively, drawing on women's unique wisdom. Women possess insights and perspectives that complement men, making them invaluable partners in this journey.

The story takes a turn in Genesis 3 when the serpent tempts Eve. The serpent whispers that by eating the forbidden fruit, she will gain wisdom and become like God, better able to help her husband. This temptation teaches us an important lesson: wanting wisdom can lead us away from God when it makes us rely on ourselves instead. In seeking knowledge outside of God’s guidance, Eve made a choice that led to sin. This reminds us that true wisdom comes from God alone.

The creation of man and woman in Genesis reminds us of our shared purpose: to care for the Earth and each other. By embracing the strength and wisdom of our partners, we can fulfill our divine mission more effectively. Let us strive to nurture not only our family but also the world around us. In doing so, we honor God’s creation and our shared responsibility.

The Fall: A Path to Growth and Redemption in God’s Plan

The Fall is understood as an essential part of God’s plan, not a mistake or unintended detour. According to this view, Adam and Eve needed to partake of the fruit to fully participate in the plan of salvation. Without the Fall, as explained in the Book of Mormon (2 Nephi 2), they would have remained in a state of innocence unable to have children or experience the depth of joy and sorrow that comes with mortal life. While their choice led to physical and spiritual separation from God, it also opened the way for them to progress, form a family, and fully participate in God’s greater plan. This part resonates with a sense of truth that many find compelling.

Rather than inheriting guilt or sin from Adam and Eve, each individual is seen as accountable for their sins, not for Adam's actions. This perspective allows for a clear focus on personal responsibility and moral growth. The Atonement of Jesus Christ redeems humanity from both the effects of the Fall and individual sins, providing a way for all to return to God through repentance and His grace.

Without the Fall, Adam and Eve, and by extension, all of humanity would have lacked the freedom to choose, to grow, and to develop their character. This concept, also taught in 2 Nephi 2, emphasizes that “there must be an opposition in all things” for true progression to occur. Through this opposition, we gain experience, develop faith, and learn to appreciate joy.

Sources

Genesis (Chapters 2 and 3)

The Book of Mormon (2 Nephi 2)