The Works of Philo of Alexandria, “Questions and Answers on Genesis, I” (Quastiones et Solutiones in Genesis, I)
A Series of Articles Summarising the Tractates of Philo of Alexandria
Introduction
Philo of Alexandria’s “Questions and Answers on Genesis, I” (Quaestiones et Solutiones in Genesis, I) is part of a series where Philo addresses various perplexing issues and inquiries concerning the first book of the Bible, Genesis.
This format, often a dialogue or a question-answer style, allows Philo to delve into the philosophical, theological, and ethical meanings embedded within the biblical text.
In this first volume, Philo focuses on the earlier chapters of Genesis, exploring themes from the creation narrative through the stories of the patriarchs.
This article is one of a series on the works of Philo of Alexandria, all of which are listed in the below Medium.com list:
This article is one of a series on the works of Philo of Alexandria, all of which are listed in the below Medium.com list:
Overview and Structure
The work is structured as a series of questions posed on specific verses or sections of Genesis, followed by Philo’s answers, which often provide allegorical, philosophical, or ethical insights into the text.
Each question and answer aims to elucidate meanings that are not immediately apparent in the scripture, addressing potential ambiguities or contradictions and offering deeper interpretative insights.
Themes and Content
Creation Narrative
Philo discusses questions related to the creation story, including the nature of God, the creation of light, the separation of waters, and the creation of living beings. He often interprets these elements allegorically, suggesting, for example, that “light” represents enlightenment and divine wisdom rather than merely physical light.
Adam and Eve
Inquiries into the story of Adam and Eve focus on issues like the serpent's nature, the concept of the “image of God,” and the implications of the fall. Philo explores the allegorical significance of the Garden of Eden, interpreting it as a symbol of the state of innocence and divine grace.
Cain and Abel
Questions about the story of Cain and Abel allow Philo to discuss human emotions such as jealousy and anger, the nature of sacrifice, and the differences between their offerings. He uses this narrative to delve into deeper discussions on virtue, sin, and divine justice.
Noah and the Flood
Philo addresses questions about the story of Noah, such as the reasons for the flood, the significance of the ark, and the rainbow. He interprets the flood allegorically as a form of divine purification and the ark as a symbol of salvation and divine protection.
The Tower of Babel
In discussing the Tower of Babel, Philo examines human pride and the drive for unity against divine will. He interprets the confusion of languages as a lesson on the limits of human ambition and the importance of divine sovereignty.
Patriarchs
Philo also addresses questions relating to the lives of the patriarchs, such as Abraham’s journeys, his conversations with God, and the meanings behind his tests and trials. Philo views Abraham’s life as an exemplar of faith and obedience, rich with symbolic meanings.
Methodology
Throughout the work, Philo interprets the text using literal, allegorical, and philosophical methods. He integrates Jewish theological concepts with Hellenistic philosophy to provide a nuanced understanding of Genesis that addresses both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences.
Conclusion
In “Questions and Answers on Genesis, I,” Philo of Alexandria offers a multi-layered interpretation of the Bible's first book, blending scriptural analysis with philosophical inquiry.
His answers provide profound insights into the text, revealing its ethical, spiritual, and metaphysical dimensions.
This work serves as a commentary on Genesis and demonstrates how Hellenistic philosophical concepts can illuminate biblical narratives, providing readers with a deeper appreciation of the text’s relevance and complexity.
