In the first book of Moses it is thus written (Gen. i. 26-31; ii. 7-9, 15-18, 21-5).1
And concerning Adam's sinning and his expulsion from the Garden of Eden it is thus
written (Gen. iii. 1-fin).2
It should be known that, with reference to Adam's original state of honour and his
final condition of dishonour, we have no reliable information except what is given in
these verses of the Taurat (Law of Moses), since in ancient histories and the traditions
of other religions there is either no correct information about Adam or, if any is given,
it is derived from this very ancient book of Genesis, or again consists merely of curious myths about the first man, whose
name they give differently in different accounts. This will be clearly evident to every
one who compares with these verses of the holy Scriptures the tales in the books of other
religions and the traditions of Muslims. But, since Adam's first condition is only briefly
described in these verses, some explanation is needed that their significance may be
properly understood. As, however, a detailed account would be too long, we shall explain
them concisely as far as may be necessary, contenting ourselves with a statement about the
manner of his creation and original condition and his sin and its consequences.
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