Nakedness, shame and covering in Genesis 3:1–21: An exegetical and theological study

Abstract

A surface reading of Genesis 2:25 and Genesis 3:1-21 leaves the reader with a dilemma over the use, understanding of the words, naked, shame and covering/ garment prior and after sin. It further requires an understanding on the nature of nakedness Adam and Eve when they were created against the nakedness that resulted from sin. What nature of covering was fit for this nakedness? Therefore, the exegetical study seeks to investigate the distinctive nature and experience of עֲרוּ מים with בּוּשׁ in Genesis 2:25 and עֵי ֹ֥ רם in Genesis 3:1-21. It will aid to identify the serpent’s nature and his role on the couple’s nakedness in Genesis 3:1-21 and the reason of God’s choice of garment to cover human’s nakedness. The conclusion is that nakedness without shame in Genesis 2:25 עֲרוּ מים and בּוּשׁ meant that Adam and Eve were created perfect in the image of God, wise, honourable, undefeated, not humiliated before each other, before God and before the enemy. The word עֵי ֹ֥ רם describes sinful condition that has changed Adam’s identity from the image of God to the Satan’s identity. God has provided a restorative garment which mankind could not afford for itself.