Unveiling the Hidden Truth: Rediscovering Free Will in the Story of Adam and Eve

The story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is more than just a tale of temptation. It serves as a mirror reflecting humanity's struggle with free will. For thousands of years, this narrative has influenced Western views on morality and personal choice. Yet, how thoroughly have we examined the true meaning of this tale?

In this exploration, we will look closely at free will through the actions of Adam and Eve, challenging the long-held beliefs that persist today.

The Setting: The Garden of Eden

The Garden of Eden is portrayed as a perfect paradise, abundantly filled with everything one could need. Adam was said to "walk and talk with the Lord," suggesting a special connection with the divine that Eve does not seem to share. She is often labeled merely as a "helper."

This raises an important question: Why was Eve left out of these divine discussions? Was she expected to follow orders without understanding their significance?

Some interpretations suggest that Eve's exclusion set the stage for her eventual quest for knowledge—a quest that many might consider fundamental to human experience.

The Serpent's Role: A Symbol of the Feminine Subconscious

In this narrative, Eve encounters a serpent, symbolizing both curiosity and wisdom. Some scholars believe this serpent denotes the feminine subconscious, operating on intuition and insight.

Eve's logic led her to connect the Tree of Knowledge with power. If this power formed the basis of the divine command, why would "the Lord" withhold it from both her and Adam?

This moment marked an awakening for Eve, stirring questions about identity and existence. For instance, consider how many people today are driven by the desire to understand their purpose and place in the world, mirroring Eve's significant step toward self-discovery.

The Misunderstanding of Free Will

Many argue that free will was the result of Adam and Eve's disobedience; and that free will would not exist but for the turn of events in the Garden of Eden. Those who argue this position assume that life for all of humanity would be better without the existence of free will. However, this belief misses the mark. Free will was endowed upon them from the very beginning. Their choice-making capacity was woven into the fabric of their existence. This concept is more easily accepted by those who can first accept that divinity can only create more divinity - sovereignty included.

Faced with a choice—to obey the Lord of the Garden's command or to explore the unknown—they were already exercising free will. Eve's decision to seek knowledge illustrates this fundamental human freedom.

By choosing to delve into the realm of knowledge ("of knowing"), Eve set off a chain reaction, resulting in consequences not only for herself but also for Adam. These consequences were not explained to Eve in advance; and, presumably, they were not explained to Adam either. Neither Eve nor Adam were made aware of the power that the Tree of Knowledge held; and they were not informed that their choice to digest the fruits of knowledge would result in a severe punishment. They were given a command and left with the option to either obey or disregard the command. Their obedient subjugation to a power outside of themselves was a prerequisite for remaining in the Garden; and, yet, they were not informed that being exiled from the Garden was part of the equation.

A study from the American Psychological Association suggests that individuals often weigh the likely outcomes of their choices prior to making decisions. The fact that most of us weigh the foreseeable consequences of our choices prior to making decisions highlights our ability to recognize that the simplest decisions can have wide-ranging effects.

The Consequences of Knowledge

The scripture in Genesis 4:22 (original KJV) states, "And the Lord God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil; and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever," the Lord God cast Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

This passage indicates that acquiring knowledge (and the power it activates) can lead to punishment, wiring our psyche to associate knowledge, and awareness, with wrongdoing.

However, we must ask: What if the pursuit of knowledge is not inherently wrong? What if understanding ourselves is simply an exercise of our inherent power and potential? Historical figures like Socrates have long argued that ignorance, rather than knowledge, is the true enemy of growth and virtue.

Reinterpreting the Narrative

When examining this biblical account, we can start to extract new lessons. Traditionally, knowledge has been viewed negatively, linked to disobedience and guilt. But what if seeking knowledge is simply part of being human?

In fact, the journey towards self-awareness and understanding our own free will is crucial for personal development. The experiences of Adam and Eve illustrate the human condition—facing the discomfort of reality is often central to growth.

Empowering Modern Perspectives on Free Will

Today, the theme of free will resonates as we navigate social norms that often try to limit our choices. The Adam and Eve story reminds us that the struggle for autonomy is not a new challenge; it has been around since the beginning of time.

To embrace our free will means recognizing its sacredness and the responsibilities that come with it. Choosing, even amidst societal pressures, is a testament to our humanity.

The Journey Ahead: Embracing Knowledge

To truly reclaim free will, we need to embrace knowledge instead of fearing it. The limits imposed by fear only constrain us. The lives of Adam and Eve encourage us to confront our truths and question long-held beliefs about right and wrong.

By valuing knowledge and embracing self-discovery, we empower ourselves to make informed decisions aligned with our true selves. Knowledge should not be regarded as a threat; it is the key that unlocks our full potential. It is our knowledge of “good and evil” that allows us to utilize discriminating wisdom and to establish the moral values we will use to make choices for ourselves. While those of us who are called to deeper spiritual understandings of non-judgment can embrace the bigger picture and align with the universal harmony of unconditional love - on a soul level, we must still make moral choices for ourselves during this incarnate experience of humanity. Knowing what is right or wrong, for us, is undeniably beneficial.

A Call to Reflect

The story of Adam and Eve is rich with meaning and extends far beyond conventional views of defiance. It emphasizes the inherent value of free will and the empowerment that comes from knowledge.

As we navigate the complexities of our lives today, let us reflect on this ancient story. Recognizing the divine nature of free will can lead us to a broader understanding that celebrates curiosity, knowledge, and autonomy.

Although the legacy of Adam and Eve may have birthed a narrative of shame, it is time for a rewrite. Free will is not a curse; it is a precious gift that invites exploration.

Let us embrace this journey of self-discovery and fully recognize the power of conscious choice-making that was woven into the fabric of our existence, from the beginning.

*Dive Deeper: Access the extended version of this article in a 13 page e-booklet HERE.

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