Why on earth? Genesis 2-3 and the snake

Abstract

Genesis 2-3 narrates the creation and fall of humankind. This narrative is generally acknowledged as myth, while earlier Ancient Near-Eastern traditions embedded in the story are often overlooked. This article focuses especially on the role of the trees and the snake in the garden. It will be demonstrated that the garden narrative is connected to the Sinai Covenant and the Mosaic Laws, as well as to the wisdom traditions in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Eventually conclusions are drawn about 'living in exile', wherever, whenever.