A Case for the Traditional Translation and Interpretation of Genesis 1:1 Based upon a Multi-Leveled Linguistic Analysis

Abstract

This dissertation examines the linguistic issues related to the translation and interpretation of Genesis 1: 1. Chapter 1 introduces the necessity for this study, explaining the theological implications that pertain to the doctrine of creatio ex nihilo. Chapter 2 offers a history of the translation and interpretation of Genesis 1: 1. It covers most of the major historical eras, beginning with the period of the Old Testament and ending with the period of the Reformation. Chapter 3 analyzes the three linguistic levels related to the translation of Genesis 1: 1 : the lexical, grammatical, and syntactical levels. The central issue of this chapter is whether the word n~t.;i~'J:;l is in the absolute or construct state. Chapter 4 analyzes the two linguistic levels related to the interpretation of Genesis 1: 1: the lexical (O:~~/rj~ and ij1n/ij1:l) and syntactical levels. The central issue of this chapter is whether or not there is semantic continuity between Genesis 1: 1 and 1:2. Chapter 5 summarizes the linguistic data related to both the translation and interpretation of Genesis 1: 1, explaining again the implications for creatio ex nihilo. This dissertation contends that the traditional translation and interpretation of Genesis 1: 1 are the most faithful to the principles of Classical-Hebrew linguistics.