Data Over Dogma Not Original, Not Sin
Dec 22, 2025
Dive into the intriguing tale of Adam and Eve as the duo unpacks the myths of Eden. Explore themes of truth and deception surrounding the infamous tree and serpent. Discover what 'original sin' really means and whether it’s biblically rooted. The hosts dissect how ideas of sin have evolved over time, connecting ancient beliefs to modern interpretations. With a mix of humor and insight, they reveal the social implications of the concept of sin. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion about morality and humanity's deeper narrative!
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Eden As A Folk Etiology
- Genesis 2–3 reads like a ritualized origin fable rather than a literal historical report.
- Dan McClellan argues the story explains why things (death, childbirth pain, legless snakes) are the way they are.
Serpent's Claim Matches The Narrative
- The Bible's text records God warning 'you shall die' yet the story's outcome doesn't match that immediate death.
- McClellan highlights that the serpent's claim (they won't die) aligns better with the narrative than God's warning.
Rib Story Echoes Ancient Myths
- Dan McClellan compares Genesis' pairing origin to Aristophanes' myth in Plato's Symposium.
- He and Dan Beecher suggest the rib/side story looks like older split-and-reunite motifs rather than a literal anatomical claim.