Consistency and Credibility - Genesis

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 

Genesis 1:26 NIV

We received a request asking if we could analyse something from the book of Genesis. Genesis 1:26 allows us to consider consistency and credibility in language. To be credible, the language used should be consistent in context.

A good conversation flows whereas difficult or potentially deceptive conversations (again context is considered) can show indicators of pauses, self edits and numerous other linguistic indicators which often cause us to question the veracity of what we've been told.

In the above text we note the consistency in the pronouns of God being more than one via use of the words, 'us' 'our' and 'our' again. The 'conversation' / text naturally flows. This speaks to credibility and consistency.

This is due to the 'Speed of Transmission,' the time it takes for us to convert our thoughts into words and speech. The process is instantaneous meaning the brain has to select specific words and order them in a way which makes sense to allow communication to take place all in the blink of an eye.

Any interruption to this process is indicative of thought. We always consider context. For example, if a person is struggling to answer a difficult question, then a 'delay' can be expected. In the above text, the author wouldn't necessarily think that they must remember to write, 'us' 'our' and 'our' again as it is natural unless it's not coming from experience.

If something is being made up and not from experiential memory then we would likely expect an interruption to the natural flow of conversation as the person has to make sure they are being consistent in their deceit which requires effort and thought. It is far easier to tell the truth than it is to lie.

The text's consistency explains why via the word 'so,' that mankind should be made in 'our' likeness. In order to, rule over all living things including latterly all the creatures that move along the ground. This includes the serpent which follows shortly thereafter.

On it's form, the text is consistent and credible.

For further linguistic insight into the book of Genesis, we recommend the book, 'Linguistic Archaeology' by Avinoam Sapir.

If you have any Bible verses you would like us to analyse, let us know.