Creation from nothing

Definition

Creation from nothing, often referred to by the Latin term 'creatio ex nihilo', is the concept that the universe and all that exists were created by a divine being without using any pre-existing materials. This idea emphasizes the power of a creator to bring forth existence solely through their will, underscoring the notion of divine sovereignty and the unique nature of creation as an act of originating reality itself.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of creation from nothing is fundamental in many religious traditions, particularly within Judeo-Christian beliefs, where it asserts that God created the world without pre-existing materials.
2. In contrast to other creation narratives, such as those involving primordial chaos or pre-existing matter, creation from nothing emphasizes the omnipotence of the creator.
3. Philosophical debates surrounding creation from nothing address questions about causality, existence, and whether something can arise without prior conditions or materials.
4. Some ancient cosmogonies suggest a more gradual formation of the universe, challenging the straightforward interpretation of creation from nothing found in certain religious texts.
5. The idea has significant theological implications, influencing discussions on the nature of God, the relationship between creator and creation, and concepts of time and existence.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of creation from nothing differ from other creation narratives found in various cultures?
  • Creation from nothing stands apart from many traditional creation myths that involve pre-existing chaos or materials. While some narratives describe a god shaping or ordering already existing elements, creation from nothing emphasizes that everything came into being solely through divine will. This difference highlights unique theological views on divine power and authority in bringing forth existence without reliance on anything else.
• Discuss the philosophical implications of 'creation from nothing' regarding existence and causality.
  • The philosophical implications of 'creation from nothing' revolve around questions of existence, causality, and whether it is logically possible for something to emerge without any prior conditions. This concept challenges conventional understanding of causation by positing a scenario where a creator acts independently of pre-existing entities or materials. Philosophers have debated whether this idea undermines principles of cause and effect or whether it requires a rethinking of these principles in light of divine action.
• Evaluate how different interpretations of 'creation from nothing' influence theological perspectives on God’s relationship with the universe.
  • Different interpretations of 'creation from nothing' significantly impact theological views regarding God's relationship with the universe. For instance, viewing God as a sovereign creator who brings everything into existence ex nihilo portrays a distinct separation between creator and creation, suggesting that God is wholly transcendent. Alternatively, some interpretations may emphasize God's immanence by suggesting that creation is an ongoing process rather than a singular event. This evaluation reflects broader discussions about divine nature, authority, and interaction with the created world.

Related terms

Cosmogony: A branch of mythology or philosophy that deals with the origin and development of the universe, often involving creation myths that explain how the cosmos came into being.

Theogony: A narrative describing the origins and genealogy of the gods, often detailing how divine beings interact and how they contribute to creation.

Divine Sovereignty: The concept that God has ultimate authority and control over all aspects of existence, including the creation and sustenance of the universe.