The History of the Universe Chapters 3 & 4

The History of the Universe~Chapter Three

To overcome the darkness on the third day, the Creator continued his work, giving rise to the immense continents which were still under the surface of the waters. With hands raised, He commanded, "Gather up the waters under the Shamayim in one place and the dry land appear." In prompt obedience, the crystal-clear waters ceded its higher position to the rising dry ground which overlapped them.

In the lower regions of the Earth, the waters continued reflecting the sky's glow to serve as a refreshment to thirsty creatures. In the gesture of humility, the water prefigured the Creator, and the great struggle of His descent to the deepest abyss to revive thirsty souls in eternal life.

Contemplating the face of that new world, Yahuah called the dry ground "land" and the gathered waters He called "seas." With His powerful voice, He continued, commanding: "The Earth will bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the Earth." In obedience to the divine command, the solid surface of the planet took on all kinds of vegetation: beautiful meadows to bloom, green fields interspersed with crystalline rivers, endless forests where leafy trees blossomed into endless, flavorful species of fruit. The Earth was like a canvas where the Creator, through the power of His Word, made masterpieces of peerless beauty.

While the hosts beheld with awe the beauty of that creation, they were surprised to recognize on the new planet the garden of Eden, the home of Yahuah's throne. The Most High, by the power of His Word, had transferred it to the bosom of that special world, where justice would be confirmed in the government of the universe.

On that spring day, the breeze gently caressed the green woods and meadows in bloom, flooding the atmosphere with soft aroma and freshness. Contemplating His work, the Creator happily exclaimed, "Behold all that is very good."

The lush planet fulfilled another day of its harmonious rotation. The faithful hosts could now better understand the importance of divine light. Its absence was overshadowed by the evening. In the new day, the Creator expressed His great power, giving the Earth lights that fill with light and heat to display the beauty of Zion.

These lights remain forever as symbols of the spiritual presence of the Eternal, which is the source of all light. Contemplating the dark and empty space that stretched around the Earth, with a strong voice, He commanded, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the Shamayim to divide the day from the night, to be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years. And let them be for lights in the firmament of the Shamayim to give light upon the Earth."

Immediately, the space came forth by the glare of the sun and the reflection of planets and celestial bodies. Given this demonstration of power, the faithful hosts bowed in reverent worship. On the fourth day, the Eternal created the worlds of the solar system not to be inhabited like the Earth, but for the balance of the system.

And also to fill the sky with glowing light to diminish the darkness of Earthly nights. Observing the Earth, the hosts were glad to see her radiant. Raising His powerful hands, the Creator, looking primarily for crystal clear waters, commanded, "Let the waters bring forth abundantly the living soul." Immediately, the waters became undulated by the presence of countless species of creatures, happy and grateful, celebrating their existence with a continuous swim and frolic. From microscopic beings to large whales, all appeared in complete harmony, reflecting in their nature their love of the Creator.

His eyes alighting on the atmosphere and resting on the green forest, the Eternal continued, "Let birds fly on the face of the expanse of the Shamayim." Upon His order, the Shamayim was filled with colorful birds flying in all directions, carrying in their hearts a song of gratitude for life. This song filled the air, mingling with the scent of flowering bushes.

Gazing with delight on His earthly creatures, the Eternal baruch (blessed) them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth." Jubilant, the faithful hosts witnessed the dawn of the sixth day. What would Yahuah do in the new day? This question lingered in the minds of all rational beings. They were certain that something very special was about to happen.

Raising His powerful arms, the Eternal commanded, "Produce on Earth every living creature according to its kind: cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth according to its kind." His powerful voice was heard, and promptly, in forests and fields, we could see the results of His creative power.

Animals of all species awoke to a happy life amid a paradise of perfect peace. The Earth had become extremely beautiful, like a princess adorned to receive their king and Master. Who would receive that special creation? Moving Himself with majesty, the Eternal fell to the glories of the new world, directing Himself to the Garden of Eden, the place of the divine throne.

The Angels of Light accompanied Him reverently, pausing like a cloud over the skies of paradise. The whole universe watched with deep interest the unfolding acts of the Creator, in response to the accusations of His enemies. The moment was decisive. Everything indicated that the Eternal would not be tyrannical or selfish and would crown someone else over the hill Zion. Satan and his followers did not doubt that they would be given the kingdom and reign victorious within that ancient abyss where darkness and light were now intertwined. The subjects of light quivered against this perspective.

Near the source of the river of life, the Eternal solemnly bowed down and, with the natural elements of earth, began to mold, with great affection, a special creature. After a few moments, the first man, yet lifeless, was lying on the body of the Creator. The Most High looked at him, and after caressing his cheek, pale and cold, He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man began to live.

As if awakening from a deep sleep, the man opened his eyes and looked at the sweet face of his Creator, who, smiling, kissed his cheek now flushed and full of life. Thrilled to hear the Eternal say to him softly and full of affection, "My son, my dear son!" Because he was born of the soil, the first man was named Adam.

Taking him by the hand, the Eternal raised him. Without regard of the glow that surrounded the Creator, Adam, in gratitude for his existence, involved Him in a tender embrace, falling down in reverent worship. The witnessing hosts of the faithful admired Adam's great divine realization, and, excited by that human gesture, fell also in reverent worship.

They then joined voices in a song of joy in greeting to that special creature, who awoke to life at a moment so critical to the Universe. With a heart full of happiness, Adam joined the angels in their song of praise. His voice echoing around the flowers, mingled with the singing of the birds and the lowing of the approaching admiring animals.

He climbed up the lofty trees that swayed in the breeze with branches hanging with abundant flowers and fruits. Leaning here and there, he was attracted by the glow of precious stones that adorned the lawn.

With intense joy, Adam took notice of the endless species of animals that populated the garden. All were meek and submissive and lived in perfect harmony and happiness. Pausing in his footsteps, Adam wondered at the whiteness and sweetness of an animal that was playing on the lawn. He came and took him in his arms, dedicating special affection to it. How nice it was to stroke its wool! His little eyes reflected a gentle glow of love and humility. There was something special about that animal. Sincerely, Adam called it "lamb."

With the lamb in his arms, Adam looked gratefully to the Eternal and worshipped Him. Contemplating His robes and His expressive eyes of a matchless love, Adam discovered that he had in his arms a symbol of its Author. Happy, Adam exclaimed, "Oh, Master, this lamb coated with white wool, with an expressive look of so much love, looks like You. I want to always have it with me."

Observing the animals, Adam realized that they enjoyed a special camaraderie. Everywhere were happy couples who lived for each other. His thoughts turned to his partner. He looked around and was surprised not to see one. He wondered if the Almighty had purposely concealed them by making them invisible. Adam felt lonely in the midst of this paradise. Who would share his happiness and love? There were animals, but they were irrational and could not share in their ideals. It was born in his heart, when walking alone that evening, a burning desire to find someone who could always be by his side.

While Adam was looking at the distant hill in hopes of seeing someone, Yahuah introduced Himself to his side and told him, "It is not good that man should be alone; soon you will have a companion." Adam was happy to hear this promise of the Creator, just when he longed to have someone to always be visible next to him. Taken by a deep sleep, Adam leaned back in the bosom of his loving Creator, Who, embracing him, did fall asleep. In his subconscious were the first colored dreams.

They included the sweet look of the Eternal, hearing the harmonious sound of angelic music, discovering the wonders all around, Mount Zion with its rainbow, the river of life, the meadows in bloom, and the animals that greeted him. Adam's gaze extended over the grassy meadows and flowering hills in the distance.

While hiking, hopefully, he could feel the gentle breeze stroking his soft hair. He began a conversation with the breeze, "Breeze, you seem to be the one I seek. You stroke my hair, kiss my face, you have the scent of a green forest. If I could see your face, I would kiss you. If I could touch your hair, I would make long braids and grace it with flowers from our garden."

After walking through the meadows in his dream of paradise, Adam paused as he looked around the landscape. He marveled that he could not see the effects of the breeze in the flowering branches, even though he could feel it warmly on his face. He began to awaken from his dream. Even with eyes closed, he remembered the moment, sleepy, he leaned on the breast of the Eternal. Could it be a breeze stroking his hands? With this question, he opened his eyes and was thrilled to contemplate a beautiful woman with hands scented, stroking his cheek lovingly. It was the breath of his dream, the promise of a Creator Who just wanted to make him happy.

Now Adam was full as was Chavah (in the Paleo Hebrew both Chavah-also spelled with a double "v", as well as Hawwah are said to be the true name of the woman more commonly taught to be called, "Eve"), who was flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone. Taking her by the hand, Adam invited her for a tour of unforgettable surprises. He would show his partner the beauties of his home. Chavah touched something with every step. She was attracted to the flowers that gave off sweet perfumes, to the birds singing cheerful songs, and to the animals that followed them submissively. The vegetation grew around them in rich hues, and the clear waters of the river of life flowed cascading from the Hill Zion.

In paradise, everything was perfect and beautiful, but nothing matched the human being, created in the image of Yahuah. They turned to each other in awe and caresses. They remained in this loving embrace until sunset. With delight, the young couple began to contemplate the setting sun through pink rays which tinged the sky in a gorgeous afterglow.

The sixth day came to its end, giving way to hours of a special day. The Seventh Day=Shabat. That day, in meaning, would be solemn to all the subjects of the Eternal, since its dawn would bring victory to the kingdom of light. The sun, which during the sixth day brought joy to nature with its brightness and warmth, hid itself, leaving cold shadows. The cheerful birds, silencing their trills, sought their nests while the other animals retired to their beds. Only the couple remained motionless, looking at the last flicker in the fading distance, which gave the hope of a new dawn. The couple inquired to the meaning of the darkness when, through the branches, they saw a beautiful moonlight, whose silvery rays bathed nature in soft light. The entire sky was lit by the glow of the stars. Adam found that the night was only darkness when he looked down. Adam and Chavah, in their innocence, did not know that night symbolized the bleak future of humanity. When they understood, they would be comforted to contemplate the splendor of the Shamayim. The moonlight speaks of hope, and the twinkling stars testify of the interest of the hosts of light in them to enlighten the darkness and give encouragement to repentant sinners. But only those who desire to be enlightened, averting their eyes from the earth, would behold the Shamayim.

After contemplating for a while, the sky in its luminosity, the couple, remembering the beauty of paradise, turned their eyes to their surroundings. But they were hidden in the shadows. They longed for the dawn, because only it could bring back paradise.

Before the yearning of the human heart, the Eternal appeared in the midst of darkness, returning to the couple the joy of meeting again in a colorful garden. Bathed in soft light, they now walked through green and flowery meadows. The brightness of the Creator awakened nature wherever they went, coloring and brightening all around.

The couple, in admiration, learned that beside the Eternal, they could have a paradise in the night. Feeling sleepy, Adam and Chavah leaned back into the lap of the loving Father, and began to sleep sweetly, hopeful of happy daybreaks. Lying them down on the soft grass, the Eternal rose up toward the contemplative hosts of Shamayim. He would manifest Himself again at dawn, making the couple wake up to the most solemn event, which would reduce to dust the vile accusation of the enemies.

The cold, dark night, through its long hours, seemed to mock the light. Would it forever overshadow the beauty of creation? Oh, never! The sun would not back down before the majesty of darkness and would coon emerge as a liberator, snatching nature with his warm rays from the cold claws of night, giving it life and color.

In a final challenge, the darkness became dense in the hours before dawn. The night enlists its forces to fight for dominance usurped. Finally, in the east came a glimmer of hope that seemed to speak in a new day. The sky gradually became colored bright red. Darkness fell powerless before the growing strength of the light and was consumed in their trail. Nature began to awaken from the long night, reflecting on her breast the longing rays. Flowers opened, exhaling scents of joy; animals and birds, silenced by the night, joined their voices in song in triumphant salute to the dawn of that great day.

The dark night was over, giving way to the light of day dreaming--a day to Yahuah which had a special meaning because it prefigured the final victory of His kingdom on the field of rebellion. The Eternal now awoke His human children who bathed by the light of His presence, having fallen asleep in the hope of a happy dawn. In a festive march, all holy hosts, with song of victory, followed Him into the paradise bathed with light.

How soon will shine a cherished morning, bringing in its light the sweet paradise lost in the night! With joy, the couple welcomed the divine Creator, joining the angels in triumphal anthems. The universe lived a truly solemn moment. That festive morning, Yahuah would reveal the greatness of HIs character, which is justice and love. Accusations that His government was selfish and tyrannical would be refuted. With the eyes of all rational creatures of the vast universe upon them, Yahuah led the young couple to Mount Zion, the place of the divine throne.

There, in the thrill of the muted hosts, the Creator, in a surprising gesture, covered the man with the royal mantle, and put on his head the crown which was coveted by Lucifer. Driven by deep gratitude for this supreme honor conferred, Adam and Eve fell down reverently at the feet of the Creator, deposing His precious crown in a sign of submission.

Following this human gesture, a shout of victory shook the whole of creation. The children of the light, which had so long suffered indignities and humiliations before the constant accusations of rebel armies, praised Yahuah in resounding baruch praise, that in His work of righteousness, He denied the enemies, revealing His character of humility, selflessness, and love.

Having made man as the lord of all creation, the Eternal, in solemn voice, began to make him aware of the greatness of His mission. As a faithful steward, he should take care of paradise, keeping clear the source of the river of life. The laws of justice and love, fundamentals of the kingdom of light, should be honored.

As a rational ruler, it would be the man, in a gesture of appreciation and gratitude, who would freely accept this government from Him who created him. The hosts, who were amazed witnessing the revelation of divine detachment, realized that the Eternal of Light would not rule over the universe, except with the consent of the human.

The man, by the will of the Eternal, was made the arbiter of creation. In his glorious being, made in the image of the Creator, shone the seal of eternal dominion. After revealing to the couple the infinite honor and responsibility of their mission, the Creator made them aware of the spiritual warfare that had been waged for conquest of universal dominion: Lucifer, who for countless ages served the heavenly King in Zion, had been corrupted by pride and by selfishness, followed by a third of the rational hosts, now sought to dethrone the Eternal, dishonoring Him with vile accusations.

Having revealed to man the painful situation in which the universe was in, the Eternal, in a solemn gesture, showed him two towering trees, laden with great fruit, rising on both banks of the river that was born from the throne. The rising tree on the right, the Eternal revealed to be the tree of life, a monument of the kingdom of light. The rising tree on the other edge proved to be the tree of knowledge of good and evil--the symbol of rebellion. Eating the fruit of the tree of life, the man would manifest his submission to the Creator, who is the Source of life and light. Eating of the other tree would give the enemy the field of Zion.

The inevitable result of this step would be eternal death. not only for humans but for all creation, which would reduce to chaos under the fury of rebellion. After contemplating at length the two lofty trees, which bear fruit externalized as infinite responsibility, Adam bowed himself to the Creator, saying, "You are worthy Most High to reign over the universe, because by Thy wisdom, love and power all things were created and remain." That Sabbath day, the divine emblem of triumph, filled with praise.

All children of light joined the human being in the most harmonious hymn of praise to Him whose greatness is peerless. Satan and his followers were astonished witnessing the great achievement of the Eternal. They bitterly witnessed the joy of the faithful before the coronation of man, an event that cast to the ground their strong objections raised against the divine government. Filled with frustration and anger, they now considered their plight. How terrible and humiliating to them was the thought of seeing their plans of rebellion divest themselves before the Creator, like the shadows of the night. If they could, they thought, they would fill the 7th Day with darkness, banishing from the mind of the Eternal's subjects any hope of victory. Finally, in his remarks, Satan and his followers realized they had one opportunity remaining. In the middle of the garden of Eden, on the heights of Zion, lifted up by the river of life, was the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

It would only take one human gesture, nothing more, and Satan would have under his power, forever, the coveted domain. But how to seduce him? Excited at the prospect of a victory, Satan sought, with ingenuity, to devise a plan of approach. He knew that if he failed in his attempt, all hopes of victory would be diluted, scrapping all his dreams of conquest. He concluded that cheating would be a powerful weapon. Had it not been he who managed to dominate one-third of the heavenly hosts?! He would await, therefore, a propitious time to set his snare.

The History of the Universe~Chapter Four

In Eden hung the sweet calm of perfect peace. Everywhere, the lovely birds were heard singing their happy trills in constant praise to the Creator. All nature seemed to blossom and proclaim the kingdom of eternal joy. The animals in union played everywhere, always submissive to the man, the lord of that lovely paradise. Everything was happiness for the couple, but this became more intense in the cool of those spring days.

The afterglow, which with its beauty tinged the sky foreshadowing the dark nights, advertised them also the time of the daily visit of the Eternal. Together, under the light of His presence, a long time passed in happy conversation.

With encouragement, the couple told the Eternal the amazing wonders that they discovered each day in nature. Yahuah fondly revealed to them the meaning of each being. How grateful were they for the beautiful lessons learned at His feet!

With each passing day, the more they felt love, respect, and admiration for the great Creator. He was so good, bringing them to life and giving them a home so full of delights! When they awoke to the joys of each new day, there came to them the remembrance of the embrace and the sweet singing of the Eternal, which made them fall asleep every night.

The life of Adam and Chavah in Eden was not idle. To them, it was recommended that they care for the garden. The occupation was not wearisome; on the contrary, it was pleasant and invigorating. The Creator indicated work as a source of benefits to humans, in order to occupy their mind and strengthen their body, developing all their faculties. In mental and physical activity, they found a high pleasure. It was also common for the young couple to receive visits from celestial beings.

Visitors always had news to report and questions to ask. Adam and Chavah spent a long time listening to them about the wonders of the kingdom of light. Through these visitors, Adam and Chavah gained extensive knowledge of the Lucifer rebellion and its eternal consequences. Adam and Chavah always begged the visitors to teach them how to join the harmonious heavenly singing. They were delighted to join the choir of angelic voices!

In His omniscience, Yahuah knew the terrible enemy's intent. Calling His main hosts, He revealed to them the weight of the imminent danger that hung over the universe. Satan would set a trap in order to bring man to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Before this revelation, the children of light were afraid, for they knew the tremendous ease of Satan to ensnare innocent creatures and throw them into their meshes of death. In solemn council, they decided to urgently send messengers to warn man of the great danger.

Two powerful angels were in charge of this crucial mission. Immediately, the commissioned messengers stormed the gates of Jerusalem, reaching the bosom of infinite space. Within moments, they transposed wildernesses, crossing galaxies en route. They entered the tunnel of the constellation Orion, approaching the new system. They could now make out a short distance away the blue planet, where the fate of the universe was about to be decided.

In Eden, all was relaxed. The young couple remained in the innocent activities, enjoying the pleasure of happy living. Absent from their mind was thinking of how, at that moment, all the children of light were tense, thinking of their future being threatened. Then they saw in the clear sky the sign of the approaching celestial visitors, and they raised their arms in a cheerful greeting. Adam and Chavah wondered, though, why they did not see in their faces the same joy.

The visitors brought on their faces an expression of longing that they could not understand. Adam and Chavah tried to change their sad features, asking them of the new discoveries made in the Shamayim. The messengers, however, not having the time available as before, interrupted with words of warning. They told them that Satan would set them a trap in order to get them to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. If they heeded the temptation, it would succumb all creation into an eternal abyss of chaos.

The angels reminded them that the kingdom had been entrusted to them as a sacred trust, and that they shall, in a life of fidelity, honor the One who emptied Himself for love, putting Himself in a position of host to the humans. Adam and Chavah should be firm against the insinuations of the enemy, as it would seal the victory for the eternal kingdom of light. They told them the happy reward that would follow this triumph. The angels revealed that the plan was for Yahuah to then transfer the heavenly Jerusalem to Earth. There, again, Earth would forever remain coupled to paradise. And man, submissive to the Creator, would reign forever without end upon Mount Zion, amid the universal praise of the hosts. But all this depended entirely on positioning the human face against the temptations of the enemy, who would do anything to snatch the kingdom.

Adam and Chavah were afraid to know the plans of Satan, but they were comforted to know he could not do them any harm, forcing them to eat the forbidden fruit. If, perhaps, he would seek to intimidate them with his power, all the hosts of the Eternal would come to their rescue.

The messengers of light completed their mission by recommending the couple remain vigilant, always bearing in mind the responsibility that rested upon them. They should not separate themselves from each other, not even for a moment, because on their own they could be swayed. Adam and Chavah, thankful for the angels' warnings, joined their voices in a song of promise in an eternal victory. They were sure they would never abandon the Almighty Creator upon hearing the voice of the tempter. Excited at the human promise, the two messengers returned to the bosom of the heavenly Jerusalem where, next to the set-apart hosts, they awaited with longing the heralded triumph.

Satan saw the messengers of Shamayim approaching and heard the man singing, promising an eternal victory. This song made his envy and hatred increase so that he could not contain it. He then told his followers that soon he would silence that nagging voice, saying, "I'd do anything to transform human praise to the Creator into blasphemy."

The hosts of rebels were curious to know the plans of their leader, but they were warned by him that they should wait until all decided to stay forever. If man would hearken to his voice and eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they would be victorious, claiming forever the domain of the universe. If the man resisted, remaining faithful to the Creator, there was no longer any hope for them.

The Shamayim seemed to be enveloped by an eternal security, but in the countenance of the man could be seen an expression of awe. Since the departure of the angels, Adam and Chavah remained silent, meditating with reverence about the tremendous responsibility of their mission. They thought of the seriousness of the imminent moment that would seal his future and all of creation. Animated, however, at the thought of victory, they joined once more their voices in a song that expressed the certainty of heralded triumph. This melody banished from their minds all fear of defeat, and they cheerfully ran in the lush meadows, accompanied by the spirited animals that seemed to celebrate the great achievement.

They felt secure in their paradise, totally oblivious of the danger of a possible assault. Satan, who carefully watched the couple, realized now was his chance. He approached invisibly from the Shamayim and was waiting for the best time to set his snare. Unaware of the presence of the enemy, the couple remained in their selfless joy, playing carelessly with the animals. In troubled countenance of Satan, there rose up a sneaky smile to witness a couple in carelessness. In their exaltation, they had failed to meet the final recommendation of the messengers, which was to not move away from one another.

The wily foe, not wasting time, took possession of the most beautiful serpent of paradise, gracefully moving it closer to Chavah. Chavah, seated on the lawn playing with the animals, realized the presence of the attractive snake, whose body reflected the colors of the rainbow. She was surprised to see the snake pick flowers and fruits from the garden, depositing them at her feet. Gratefully, she took the snake in her arms, devoting her affection.

Having won the affection of the woman, Satan, in his cunning, began to draw her to the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Unaware of the danger. Chavah followed the snake to the tree of testing. There, having the hidden enemy in her arms, she stroked it and told it of her endearments. Having in his eyes the brightness of seduction, the serpent began to speak. His words were full of wisdom and tenderness, and his voice like an angel.

Chavah could hardly believe her eyes. Her joy became immense to have a creature in her arms that was so fantastic. It began to talk of many things: love, the beauties of the garden, the power of the Creator. Chavah was amazed at the vast knowledge of the serpent, who discoursed with mastery on any subject. Encircled by this experience, Chavah completely forgot her companion, even forgetting the warnings of the angels. Adam, who also entirely forgot the advice of the Shamayim messengers, had moved away in the company of some animals.

After some time, there came with a vengeance into his mind the memory of the warnings received. Ringing in his ears clearly were the last words uttered by the angels, "Do not turn away from one another. Not even for a moment separate, as it is dangerous." His heart beat quickened to not see Chavah at his side. He then raised his voice to an anxious shout. His voice, echoing through the vaults of heaven, however, did not bring an answer. The silence almost choked him. In his grief, he began to run from one side to another, looking for her in vain.

In this anxious search, he felt the breeze stroking his hair and recalled his first dream. That memory, however, broke down at the thought of the danger that threatened them. With mind taken by a great sense of guilt, Adam picked up the pace in distressing demand. Where was his loved one? Was there still time to involve her in his arms, freeing her from falling?

Once again, he raised his voice in a shout that reverberated throughout the anxious garden. "Chavah, where are you?" He waited for a response, but heard only an empty echo of despair. He remembered the tree of knowledge of good and evil, which was the one place where his companion could be deluded. Hoping to block the only chance of the enemy, he advanced towards the place of proving. His heart beat quickly, contemplating the distant prohibited treetop.

With the snake in her arms, Chavah questioned it about many things. She marveled to see that the serpent greatly surpassed other serpents. He then told a lie, saying he was a snake like the rest, eating the fruits of paradise. He tasted that forbidden fruit one day and received, as if by magic, all the virtues. Looking at the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Chavah was surprised and confused.

Would the Creator in His love deprive something so good to His creatures? Seeing her surprise, Satan asked, "Did not Yahuah say that ye shall eat of every tree of the garden?" Chavah, restless, replied, "Of the fruit of the tress of that tree that you claim to be a source of wisdom, Yahuah said, 'Ye shall not eat of it, lest ye die." The serpent in a tone of disdain, said, "This is false. If so, I would have died."

Surely the Eternal forbade them to eat from that tree to prevent the man from becoming as He, knowing all things. The seductive words of the serpent caused confusion in the mind of Chavah of whom to trust. She had in mind the memory of the order of the Creator and His sentence, but at the same time, she had before her a tangible proof that contradicted it. Stunned, she began to doubt the character of the Eternal. In a challenge, the serpent harvested fruit from the forbidden tree and started to eat it.

Putting a fruit in the hands of the woman, he encouraged her to eat, saying, "Did not the Eternal say that if someone touched the fruit they would die?" A complete silence hung over the universe. In each inhabited planet, the children of light stared helplessly at the agonizing scene. Their future was that they must respect the free will granted to mankind, and that they would manifest their choice under the temptation of the enemy.

The children of light suffered greatly when they saw the woman doubting Him who so kindly gave them life and the chance to reign in that paradise. How could they doubt He who devoted so much love?

Adam, a strong hope of securing a cherished victory, hastened like a race. He saw his beloved from afar, sitting by the tree of proving.

What was Chavah doing in that place so dangerous?

A horrible feeling came upon him. He remembered once again the warnings received, but sought to banish it as he thought that he would reach his wife before something bad happened to her. Chavah wavered in her conviction with the fruit in her hands.

For a few moments, the future seemed dark and terrifying to her, but she overcame this feeling by thinking of the glories she would gain by eating this fruit. Still somewhat undecided, she slowly raised her hands to touch the fruit to her lips.

The subjects of the kingdom of light, shaken, fell down with astonishment. It seemed almost impossible at that point that the woman could come back. While the faithful pale inquired about a possible hope, they witnessed with horror the terrible decision that Chavah took to break forever with the Creator, becoming captive to death.

The Eternal, who gazed in silent pain at the scene of rebellion, bowed his forehead with his face bathed in tears. He could not bear the pain of separation. The faithful, who panicked and thought themselves vanquished, were aware that all was not lost. If Adam resisted the temptation and remained faithful to the Eternal, he would seal the big victory. Chavah, who was the victim of a mistake, could be made aware of her mistake, being favored with divine forgiveness.

When Adam in his agonizing race reached the place of testing, it was too late. Seated next to the river, Chavah tasted the forbidden fruit carelessly. Adam shuddered. Was it really the fruit of proving? In a gesture of hope, he looked at the tree of knowledge of good and evil. but tearfully acknowledged the sad conviction. Filled with grief, he beheld his wife but found no words to awaken her to so bitter a reality. In complete desperation, he raised his voice in a painful exclamation, "Chavah, Chavah, what are you doing?"

By eating the forbidden fruit, the woman was taken by emotions that led her to imagine she'd reached a higher sphere of life. Upon hearing the voice of her husband, and taken by these illusory emotions, she raised her brow with a smile but was surprised to see him crying.

With deep sorrow, he sought to know the reason that led her to rebel against the Eternal. Chavah promptly began to tell him the story of the wise fantastical serpent. Satan knew this snake story would never convince the man to eat of the forbidden tree. He needed to find a subtle way to get him to seal his fate in the footsteps of his wife. Having Chavah under his power, he decided to make her the object of tempting and would await the opportune moment to ensnare him.

The memory of this sentence, "On the day you eat thereof, you shall surely die," made Adam very distressed. The expectation of seeing his beloved perishing in his arms was too much to bear. This distress, however, was decreasing, to see that she was still happy and loving at his side, as if no harm had happened. Relieved, Adam smiled again, corresponding to the affections of his companion. He surrendered to the sweetest emotions, far from knowing that the enemy was involved with those hugs.

In that moment of rapture, Chavah began to tell him about her experience with the knowledge of good and evil. She told him of the treasures of wisdom that had been opened. In her new kingdom, she could live very happy. However, this happiness would be incomplete without the participation of her spouse. She told him of the impossibility of going back on her footsteps and urged him to follow. After talking to him of her decision, Chavah, with a sweet smile, held out her hands containing a fruit, and asked him to eat in demonstration of his love for her. With this tempting voice in his ears, Adam sat on the lawn in deep thought. His face became pale again, his hands trembling. He feared to rebel against the Creator, but at the same time he understood that he could not live apart from his companion, who he loved with infinite love.

Chavah was flesh of his flesh, the extension of his being. He was distressed at having to make a decision so serious. The paleness of Adam's face was reflected on the faces of all the faithful to the Eternal. They had heard the suggestion of the enemy and realized with horror the vacillation of man. The indecision of Adam left them desperate. If he obeyed what Satan proposed, all happiness would be banished forever. In human decision was the fate of the entire universe.

Would he answer the call of Satan?

After intense inner struggle, Adam looked at his companion, who he had joined with eternal promises of delivery. He would not leave her now. He would share with her the results of the rebellion. Then he took the fruit from the hand of Chavah and brought it to his mouth in hasty gesture,

Looking to stifle the voice of conscience speaking to him of eternal damnation, Adam threw himself into the arms of his wife, enjoying the high price of his rebellion. Satan, with shouts of triumph, left Eden flying swiftly along to his innumerable hosts who looked anxious as the result of the risky attempt.

Upon learning of human misery, they joined in a thunderous party. They felt secure, Zion was now theirs by right. There they could establish an eternal kingdom, never being harassed by the laws of the Eternal.

Across the Universe the children of light bewailed the loss they suffered. There had never been such sadness and horror of the future. The voices that lived to sing praises to the Creator now uttered lamentations.

The Eternal, overcome by infinite pain, bowed low. He was in tears from the fall of man, but He was not surprised. Even before He created the universe, He had already foreseen this triumph of rebellion, and in His wisdom and love, formulated a rescue plan that would involve a huge sacrifice. Wiping the tears from his eyes, he put Himself to act powerfully for His faithful afflicted to prevent them from falling into enemy hands. This mysterious intervention apparntly deposed against justic. The Eteranl commanded His most powerful angels to immediately surrond the garden of Eden, preventing Satan from taking possession of Mount Zion.

Comforted before the epiphany, the powerful creatures in ready obedience broke the infinite space and in moments circles around paradise, within which the human being, already disturbed by sin, experienced the blackness of a night that would be long and cruel.

As the authority of the Eternal was founded on justice, how could he justify His actions before their enemies? Would He not relinquish the kingdom that be man's choice had fallen to Satan?

Surprised, the rational creatures considered the decisive actions of Yahuah. They then heard Hos powerful voice, reverberating throughout creation, which brought revelation of the great mystery. So wonderful a revelation that from that moment, for all eternity, it would occupy the minds of the faithful during the sweetest meditations.

The Eternal first spoke about the terrible condemnation that hung over mankind and all creation. He said that by turning off the Fountain of Life, the man had rushed into so deep chasm that he could not be reached by His arm of justice and power. Humiliated and tortured by the claws of the enemy, there was not left to man another chance after death--this was the result of his painful spontaneous rebellion.

Considering the human situation, the hosts of light saw possibilities of triumph. They knew that only the man could regain dominion of the enemy, returning it to the Creator. But the human being, eternally enslaved in nature, would be incapable of such victory.

With melodious voice and full of tenderness, Yahuah revealed the plan of redemption, saying, "In fact, the man will reap from their rebellion the fruit of a terrible death. I cannot, with my power, change your fate. If I were so to act, it would be unfair on my decree. I'll instead put all the condemnation upon a substitute that will arise in human offspring. This man will not bring in his hands the bonds of death, being innocent and undefiled in His nature. As a representative of the human race, He will face and overcome Satan. After triumph in this battle, that truth is stronger than lies, that humility is more powerful than pride, this faithful Substitute will lift their hands not to boast victoriously of that great achievement, but to take from the hands of the enslaved humanity the sup of his conviction. In gulps so submissive, He will drink the cup of eternal death. This immense sacrifice will open to the human beings a chance to be redeemed, to return to the arms of the Creator, along with the lost dominion."

The hosts, surprised before the revelation of the Eternal, inquired about the identity of that Substitute. The Creator, with a loving smile, told them, "I will be the man. My Ruach will rest upon a virgin, and it will generate a set-apart Son. This boy will be divine and human. In His humanity, He will be submissive to the divinity that swells in Him. The redeemed will see Him as the Everlasting Father, the King of kings. His Name is Yahusha (the Eternal saves)." Assuming a human nature, Yahuah could pay the high ransom price, dying in the place of sinners.

The hosts were stunned into silence to know the plan of the Creator. The thought of seeing Him undergo so painful a sacrifice in order to redeem the lost dominion, was too much to bear. There was, however, no other hope of victory, unless through this loving delivery.

After enjoying the high price of sin, the young couple felt sick. Initially they felt a great emptiness in the heart, which was soon filled with remorse and grief. They realized that, inspired by greed, they had sealed their sad fate and the fate of all creation. It seemed to them that they could hear the distant wail of a conquered Universe. The sun that was full of life and warmth that day, lurked in the distance, announcing to them a dark night. The afterglow, which until then had announced a happy encounter with the Creator, seemed to involve them in a sentence that would never awaken to a new day. They dared not even to look up, fearing to see falling upon them the radius of judgement that would reduce the dust.

With the eyes on the cold ground, there came to mind the sentence, "The day you eat thereof, you shall surely die." Desperate tears rolled down their faces as they awaited the tragic end. When considering the reason for his rebellion, Adam began to blame his wife for having listened to the serpent. Chavah, in turn, trying to apologize, put the blame on the Creator, saying, "Why did the Eternal let the serpent deceive me?" The love that reigned in the human heart disappeared, giving way to pride and selfishness, which merges into resentment and hatred. His nature was no longer pure and set-apart, but corrupt and fell of rebellion.

Everything was changed. Even the gentle breeze which hitherto had bathed them in refreshing caresses, now froze the guilty pair. Trees and flowerbeds, which used to be their delight, became impediments as they walked aimlessly through the night. The purpose of Satan to fill the Shabat with darkness seemed to have been fulfilled. That night there was not even the silver moonlight to tell them of hope. The twinkling stars, suspended in the dark sky, were overshadowed by the pain. The darkness of a long night of sin descended over the world--shadows under which many would drag themselves towards a hopeless dawn. The night was already high, and the darkness seemed to involve the sad couple in eternal shadows.

They did not speak to each other, being suffocated by the agony of a dawn. They were crestfallen, groping here and there in anticipation of impending judgement which would reduce them to cold dust and leave them forgotten in that darkness without end.

Suddenly, there appeared a glow in the sky, which increased as it approached the Earth. The man trembled, for he knew that it was the Creator who came to give them the punishment. Overcome by panic, they began to run, away from the mount of Zion, the place of the shameful fall. If they looked back, they would see the Creator Himself. They, who always ran to meet the loving Father, attracted by His light, now fled into the dense forest, desperate for dark places.

The Most High, moved by infinite love, came to follow in the footsteps of the fugitive couple. As He walked, He wept as He remembered the happy times He had spent with them in that paradise. How everything had become! The children could no longer see His as a Father of love, but someone who, angry, sought to punish them. Moved by a strong desire to embrace His human children, Yahuah's voice repeated a question, "Adam, where are you?" His voice, the sound in the darkness, was met with just a hollow echo that spoke of ingratitude and rebellion. How He wished to embrace the couple in a fervent embrace, and with words of affection confess to them that His love was the same! Seeing His children flee from His presence, the Eternal was overcome with pain. With grief and tears, He beheld the future of the human race stretched before Him.

How many, deceived by Satan, would flee from His presence during the long night of sin, believing the Most High was a tyrant, who lived to seek out the flaws and weaknesses of sinners in order to punish them? The Creator, however, did not give up seeking in the dark valleys of the kingdom of death to win a repentant people. Adam and Chavah, exhausted by the hurried escape, hid themselves among the foliage of a foot fig. Recognizing their nakedness, they sought to sew aprons from those leaves. Dressed so they thought they could get rid themselves of the feeling of shame before the Creator. The Eternal approached the place where the couple was hiding and asked, "Adam, where are you?"

No longer able to hide from Yahuah, Adam stood up along with his mate and downcast, presented themselves to the Creator, falling down trembling at His feet. They failed to look at Him more, due to the sense of guilt.

The Creator, lovingly, took them by the hands, lifting them off the ground, and with an expression of sadness in the countenance, he asked them, "Why do you run away from Me? Did you eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil?"

Adam, trembling, his voice ragged with sobs of fear, replied, "The woman whom thou gavest me, she gave me the fruit and I ate it." With this answer, Adam tried to apologize, blaming it on his wife.

Turning to Chavah, The Eternal asked her, "Why did you do that?" Chavah readily answered Him, "That serpent deceived me and I ate it." Both did not want to plead guilty, flipping it over onto others. They then attributed the responsibility to the Creator for any wrongdoing. Why had He given them free will, why had He created the woman, why had He created the serpent? Silent, Yahuah watched His timid and bewildered children stand before Him.

With deep sorrow, He predicted that this would be the experience of countless human beings throughout history. How would they get lost by not recognizing their own guilt! How would they seek to justify themselves by launching their mistakes on others and even upon the Creator. With soft words, The Eternal sought to make them acknowledge their own guilt. Only by recognizing their need could they be helped. Looking at the fragile garments woven by the couple's sinful hands, He said, "Children, these garments are insufficient, when they dry, they will be dissolved. You need lasting garments that can cover your nakedness and escape the condemnation. If you want, I can give you that robe."

Before the kind words of the Creator who brought hope, the couple fell sorry, and undressed from their illusory robes, symbols of their failure. They longed now for the garments of salvation promised by their Almighty Father.