Estimating the age of the planet based on biblical texts is a complex undertaking involving genealogical timelines found primarily in the Book of Genesis. Individuals interpreting the scriptures often calculate the age by summing the lifespans of individuals listed from Adam to later figures, aiming to determine the elapsed time since creation. Different interpretations of the biblical text and varying manuscript traditions lead to a range of calculated ages.
The importance of these calculations stems from the desire to reconcile religious beliefs with scientific findings about the Earth’s age. Historically, such calculations have been used to support a relatively young-Earth creationist viewpoint, which conflicts with the scientific consensus established through radiometric dating and geological studies that indicates an age of approximately 4.54 billion years. This divergence has fueled ongoing discussions and debates between faith and science.
