Expert: Rabbi Yechezkel Fox - 10/30/2009

Question
Dear Rabbi,
I am a Christian (worshipping in the Anglican tradition) I am studying theology (as my minor) at University. I have been writing an exegesis on John 1:1-18 and am fascinated by the way it keeps taking me back to Genesis. I have recently been reading a book by John Shelby Spong who has introduced the concept of Midrash - which has opened up an entire new world for me. So finally to my questions - could you please tell me what the Jewish faith accepts as the true creation story, what (if any part) evolution can/does play, should either creation story in Genesis be taken literally or are they symbolic?
I am so looking forward to your response - many thanks in advance.
Shalom,
Geraldine.

Answer
Hi Geraldine,
            What you read in the beginning of Genesis is the true account of creation. Evolution runs contrary to our beliefs. We take the account of creation literally, but of course the original Hebrew language with all of it's subtleties gives a fuller picture.
All the best,
rabbi Yechezkel Fox