The Long Ascent: Genesis 1-11 in Science and Myth Trilogy [3 volumes] (Wipf and Stock Publications, 2019–2023), by Robert Sheldon
Reviewed by Rabbi Reuven Chaim
Klein (Rachack Review)
This work is a trilogy that
promises to bridge the gap between the ancient and the modern, the mythical and
the scientific. Written by a trained physicist with a strong Christian
background, the series attempts a line-by-line interpretation of the first
eleven chapters of the Bible. The author's proficiency in both the hard and
soft sciences, as well as his deep understanding of ancient mythologies and the
midrashic tradition of the rabbis, positions this work as a kind of scientific
midrash or "technical exegesis."
The author's approach is
meticulous, integrating recent scientific discoveries with linguistic analysis
of Hebrew texts and ancient mythologies. He differentiates between semantic and
visual coding within these texts, offering original insights based on linguistic
tools and dictionaries. This method allows for a nuanced understanding of the
original intent of the Hebrew words, adding a layer of depth to the
interpretation of these foundational Biblical chapters.
One of the most striking aspects
of the trilogy is the author's ability to read ancient mythologies as coded
information, integrating them into his theories. This is particularly evident
in his discussions on the location of Eden, which he intriguingly posits lied
in the Mediterranean seabed (“Med bed”), using — among other things —
bathymetric analysis to support his claims. Mr. Sheldon draws connections to
Egyptian elitist wisdom and the ancient Greek legend of Atlantis, suggesting a
technologically-advanced society in Eden, complete with portable nuclear power.
The author also tackles the
origins of humanity, distinguishing between Cro-Magnons and the descendants of
Adam, and offers a controversial take on the flood as a divine punishment for
engaging in genetic editing. These interpretations are highly original and
engaging, presenting a fresh perspective on well-worn biblical narratives.
The book is commendable for its
presentation, featuring numerous tables, maps, and pictures that enhance the
reader's understanding. The prose is easy to read, making complex ideas
accessible without overwhelming the reader with citations. However, the interspersed
short narratives of prose fiction (which resemble and draw upon ancient myths),
may not appeal to all readers. Personally, I found these sections less engaging
and tended to skip them.
Despite its many strengths, the
trilogy's ambitious integration of science, myth, and theology may raise some
skeptical eyebrows. The author's conclusions, while well-argued and supported
by various forms of evidence, often venture into speculative territory. The
idea of Eden as a technologically advanced society or the flood as a reaction
to genetic manipulation, for instance, might be seen as a stretch by some
readers. Additionally, the book's reliance on a mix of scientific and mythical
sources could be perceived as selective, potentially leading to confirmation
bias.
Overall, these books comprise a
highly original and thought-provoking series. They offer a compelling read for
those interested in the intersection of science, religion, and ancient
mythology — even if it requires a healthy dose of skepticism. The author's
passion and expertise shine through, making this a noteworthy contribution to
the ongoing dialogue between faith and reason.
