A biblical narrative of the theology of work

Abstract

In this article, the investigation of the theology of work is carried through from the perspective of biblical narratives in view of the origin of work as stated in Genesis 2:15. The basis of this argument is derived from the premise that God instituted work, and that it was not the result of the human fall in the story of creation. The author further argues that work was given to humanity to be able to develop a relationship between humanity and the Creator. Furthermore, it is argued that the use of verbs in the Hebrew text, such as, bad and shamargive adescription of the theology of work in the creation story. The researcher discovered that our daily work was God's idea, and it was intended to benefit humanity. Purpose: To explore the theology of work in the Biblical narratives and to provide the evidence that work was given to human beings to strengthen the relationship between the Creator and men. The researcher also attempts to argue that the Sabbath rest presupposes work. Findings: The work of humanity was introduced in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve were given the task of caring for the garden (Gen 2:15). Furthermore, work was the primary focus in the prologue of Genesis (Gen 1:1–2:3) and this suggested that work was the theme of the Biblical narratives.