Q&A: The Existence of the Figures in the Book of Genesis
The Existence of the Figures in the Book of Genesis
Question
Hello Rabbi.
I wanted to know whether there is any reason to believe that Abraham, Noah, Moses, Adam, and Eve… actually existed.
And if you have sources, that would be excellent.
Thank you very much, have a good evening.
Answer
I don’t know. From the perspective of the medieval authorities (Rishonim), it seems there is a dispute about this. See the controversy over allegorization and the ban in Rashba responsa, part 1, siman 415, and the surrounding discussion.
But the question is not really relevant, because if you believe, then you believe; and if not—then what practical difference does it make whether there is value in it or not? If there is value in it, would you therefore decide to believe? Whether they existed is a factual question, and it is not something that can be commanded.