Eve and the Choice Made in Eden

by Beverly Campbell

Is the way that women evaluate their own worth affected still by the biblical story of Mother Eve? Author Beverly Campbell suggests, “In much of the literature and in most of the histories referring to women there is an undercurrent of apology, as though there is something not quite 'all right' about being a woman. In looking for the source of this unease, I came to recognize that it could be traced to accounts of the Creation and to the ever-prevalent and negative characterizations of Eve.”

She writes of three levels from which the story of Eden must be viewed: as historical fact, as a series of symbols and metaphors, and as a place for a beginning our own search for spiritual understanding and relevance in life. This compelling book may change forever your perception of our first parents and the choice they made.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Lds, Church, Spirituality, Book Club, Christian

256 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2002

About the author

Beverly Campbell served for twelve years as a Director of International Affairs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As director of community relations for Special Olympics, Inc., she played a major role in the creation and developement of the Special Olympics programs. She has served on numerous civic and government boards and has been a spokesperson for the LDS Church on the Equal Rights Amendment and other women’s issues.

She and her husband, A. Pierce Campbell, are the parents of three children and grandparents of six. After living thirty- plus years in the Washington, D.C., area, they now reside in Arizona.

- from Deseret Book

Reviews

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first half of this book. I found it enlightening and full of good insights, even if I had read many of the quotes used before. I enjoyed reading of the real meaning of the word "helpmeet" which is actually a "power equal to save," though I've read a more powerful explanation of the term in this article: http://ldsmag.com/component/zine/arti... . There's another treatment of the term here: http://womeninthescriptures.blogspot.... . I was fascinated also by a quote I'd never encountered before by Joseph Smith: "God breathed into Adam his spirit, or breath of life; but when the word 'rauch' applies to Eve, it should be translated lives." In other words, Eve carried within her not just her own life, but the lives of the future children of God to be born on earth. Given that part of her mission, it seems only fitting that she should be the first to partake. I enjoyed the chance to ponder over the story of Adam and Eve in more depth.

I found the book superficial in other respects though, and at times I feel like Campbell overstates her case -- she believes Eve played a great part in the creation of the world and while I feel that's possible, I think it's speculation. She is also strongly of the opinion that Eve was very well aware of the impact of her action in eating the fruit and that she was schooled very greatly in what it would entail. While I think she knew enough to act in faith, I think this part is overstated.

Overall, the book was a valuable read, but it was also repetitious, with the same scriptures and similar insights stated over and over in only slightly different ways. It could have benefited from a good editor, who could cut out about half of the material (particularly the last half of the book) without damaging the core message of the book.

[Cami · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever considered how greatly your general feelings about yourself (if you are a woman) and the female gender are influenced by the story of the Creation and the generally acknowledged opinions about Mother Eve?
The more I thought about this, I found myself agreeing with a statement from the Washington Post quoted in this book: "The story of Eve in the book of Genesis has had a more profoundly negative impact on women throughout history than any other."
This book explores the story and language of the Creation in great depth and brings to light the reality that women are a vital and wonderful part of the plan of God from the beginning. It shows that Eve's choice was not a sin, but a transgression and more than that, that is was a choice between obeying a lesser and temporary commandment and obeying the greater and eternal commandent to multiply and replenish the earth. This book explains and enforces over and over the strong and capable partner that Eve was to her husband Adam and that we still have that roll to fulfill ourselves.
This is a very powerful book, taking on specific words and reaching back through ancient languages to bring to light the true meaning of these words, altering what the Creation story really tried to state. Words such as: beguiled, naked, helpmeet, Eve, forbidden and fall, to name a few.
I feel like there is great value to all women here, not just those that believe in the modern-day scripture (used by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) quoted often.
One last quote from the book by John A Widtsoe: "In life all must choose at times. Sometimes, two possibilities are good; neither is evil. Usually, however, one is of greater import than the other. When in doubt, each must choose that which concerns the good of others-the greater law-rather than that which chiefly benefits ourselves-the lesser law...The greater must be chosen whether it be law or thing. That was the choice made in Eden."

[Sher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since I was old enough to realize my brothers were treated differently than I was, in a preferential way, I have looked for clarification and validation of my position in the world. I long ago came to realize that I as a woman am just as important as any man. The problem that remained, however, was that THEY don’t treat us that way. Certainly I don’t include every man in that statement, (and gratefully, especially not my own husband!) but there are enough of them out there that at times, many times, it is hard as a woman to hold one’s head up and offer a worthwhile opinion for fear of being looked down upon, that is, if given the chance to talk in the first place. Undervalued, or valued for the wrong things, that has been a woman’s lot for much of history. This book makes it clear that from the very beginning, men and women were created equal and were meant to remain that way. And although I knew that already, this author’s voice is strong. She knows what she is talking about. I like her! We need more like her! I don’t want to be a man. I don’t want to do “men things.” I just want to be the best woman I can be, and be respected for it. Thank you, Mrs. Campbell, for this book!

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book. Highly highly recommend. The first half is phenomenal and spoke of so many things that I've known were true and I loved seeing scripture and quotes backing all that up. The second half was not as mind-blowingly awesome, but I still mostly enjoyed.
Eve is such a powerful and strong woman - a huge hero of mine - and I loved being able to study her a little more with this book.

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible! So much to consider in regards to the events in the garden of Eden. Excellent and must read.

[Sirpa Grierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had, years ago, read Beverly Campbells' excellent article on this subject (given April 2, 1993, at the 11th annual conference of Collegium Aesculapium in Salt Lake City, Utah). Campbell was then director of International Affairs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Campbell, also a director of the Joseph P. Kennedy Foundation and a founder of the Special Olympics program here, in a more watered down version, shares some insights on the story of Eden. Who was Eve? As a young Lutheran girl, I was always a little embarrassed to have been descended from Eve as Adam seemed so wise and righteous. The world portrays Eve as somehow a failure: weak, easily deceived, and mentally incapable of making a good decision. As a member of the LDS church I have come to realize that Eve was truly glorious and beautiful, a perfect woman as a match for Adam. In an early vision that opens to Zebedee Coltrin, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, they see "two most beautiful and perfect specimens of mankind [they had:] ever [seen:]." Zebedee writes that "Joseph said, They are our first parents,' Adam and Eve." He continues that "Adam was a large broad-shouldered man, and Eve, as a woman, was as large in proportion." B. H. Roberts, "New Witnesses for God, 2:7.

If one believes that the purpose of mortality is to progress to become more Christlike in all of our attributes, we are able to do this through a conscious decision-making process called agency. We come to earth from a pre-existent state in order to learn to choose wisely and grow to become more like our Father--Eloheim, the Eternal God. The Fall was a necessary part of an eternal plan. Eve's choice was to transgress one law in order to fulfill another law, the commandment to "multiply and replenish the earth." Our placement on earth stems from the agency that Eve exercises on behalf of all mankind, a transgression from the garden state to mortality, without which the entire plan of God would have no meaning and Adam and Eve would still be wandering around in Eden alone. So how was Eve able to make this choice? Was it because she was simple and confused or was it a carefully thought out decision? I concur with Campbell that it was the latter.

As brain research is beginning to indicate, perhaps men and women think differently. Men seem to think in terms of absolute justice (black and white, right and wrong), whereas women's thinking is generally more intuitive and multidimensional. Women's brains are hardwired to think in terms of "highest best good" and interrelationships (the qualities of mercy) or what Beverly Campbell calls a "morality of responsibility. " In fact, research on how morality develops within societies indicates that morality scales are based on studies which do not include women as subjects! See Alma 42:24 for an interesting insight on the terms his and hers.

In the Genesis (and Moses) account, Adam is given a commandment to not partake of the tree of knowledge of good and evil in a time before Eve is created (Genesis 2:16-17). He, as a black and white thinker will not break the commandment of God by his own volition. Eve, on the other hand, uses the type of thinking that allows for a morality of responsibility and realizes that without transgressing one law, she breaks another (multiple and replenish the earth) and cannot ever bear children to fulfill God's other commandment. How long she ponders this choice is not told to us, but over time, she comes to the decision that if Adam will not do it, she must. And what a gift she gives us. Through her brave and well-reasoned choice, we learn that mortality is a probationary period in which we are allowed to choose and to know by our own experience "the good from the evil."

Adam and Eve, for me, epitomize the best of a marriage relationship and partnership as they complement each others ways of being and even each others' thought processes. 1 Corinthians 11:11 talks of this. Who'd have guessed? It looks as if God knew all along why man and women were intended to become of one heart and one mind. :) Also read: Alonzo Gaskill's book on the subject, The Savior and the Serpent: Unlocking The Doctrine of the Fall.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this book, but I found the first half rather frustrating, and I'm not sure why. Since this book was written several years ago now, I felt that I already knew a lot of this information. I felt like the author may have described Adam and Eve and their mission/choice a little over-the-top though---I mean, that I whole-heartily admire and respect and honor what Adam and Eve have done for us; Eve, especially, who was courageous enough to make the choice that caused them to be cast out of the Garden of Eden, to pass through sorrow and suffering and death in order to know the good, to have joy and to raise children. But the author treated them as perfect beings, almost like gods themselves---which seemed too strong for me. Everything was too wonderful, too majestic, too perfect and too glorious. It just didn't feel real to me when described that way.

Another point that bothered me was her description of Satan (and quotes she'd found). In one instance, she was saying how "duped" he was by Eve and that he didn't realize he was actually aiding Heavenly Father's plan. In my opinion, I know that Satan does not know the mind of God, however, he was there in the beginning when God presented His plan in the grand council of heaven before this life. I also believe Satan is very cunning, crafting and intelligent. He is the great deceiver. I believe that he offered the fruit to Adam and Eve because he also knew it was the only way for man to multiply and thus give him access to all of God's children so that he could bring under his power, through sin and temptation, drawing them away from God. I find it hard to believe that he simply "forgot" God's plan as was mentioned again and again. However, she seemed to change gears, finally (but briefly), and captured what I had been thinking: "In the biblical narrative, Satan boldly seeks to move matters along. Ever lusting for power, he sees Eve as an ally in his unrighteousness endeavor to gain sovereignty over the bodies and the souls of humankind.”

Anyway, I found the last half of the book to be quite enjoyable. I appreciated her explanations of how men and women think differently, especially in their decision making processes. Additionally, I loved reading about the roles of justice and mercy (described as masculine and feminine), and the equally necessary and divine roles of both men and women.

One of my favorite quotes that sums it all up is this: "The ultimate reality for women rests on the truth that our lives are embedded in relationships. Our identities are tied up with other people. The story of Adam and Eve reminds us that knowledge and truth come out of this selfsame process of human interaction. It is through these interconnections and the judgments we make affecting them that we as women keep the family of humankind together. This is the greater law.”

And this from President Gordon B. Hinckley of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "Your potential is limitless. You are daughters of God, endowed by inheritance with marvelous gifts and immeasurable potential. Accept the challenge. Go forward with confidence.”

[Joe Wisniewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful read addressing the real "choice" made by Eve; the difference between transgression and sin; and the strength and uniqueness of women. I really appreciated the work that Beverly Campbell did in putting together a long overdue treatise on the "choice" made in Eden.

This has been especially menaingful for me having just visited Adam-ondi-ahman in Missouri. I highly recommend this book to get a better understanding of how the choices were made and why and how, in certain circles, the concept of "guilt" associated with Eve's "sin" is simply a misunderstanding of what really did transpire in the Garden and why.One

One of the more interesting views that the author puts forward has to do with the differing ways that, in general, males and females apply and view adherence to the "rules" of morality. Again, in general, men view the application of morality as a clear cut "decision". Something either adheres to or differs from ones view of morality. Whatever ones moral code is, decisions are generally clear cut; either an action adheres to or differs from one's moral code; the decision may not be easy but it is clear what has to be done. Women on the other hand appear to take a much more holistic approach to determining what kind of response is necessary in response to an action that adheres to or differs from her view of her moral code. She has a tendency to view the implictions of a moral decision to any and all possible "players" who could be affected by a moral decision. She will generally weigh the implications of her decisions not only in the current time frame but in the future.

Now what is more interesting is how society (men?) view this. Men very often view this approach by women as "ambiguous" or even worse, viewing her as not being able to make a decision. Her opinions therefore and her approach is often degraded when "compared" to his ability to "make a decision".

Now, applying this to what the scriptures tell us as to what happened in the Garden is quite interesting. Adam's response as to why he partook of the fruit, from the original Hebrew, translates roughly as "I did what I was supposed to do". Eve was confronted with conflicting, but yet quite clear choices, once she evaluated all the implications. I found this quite interesting.

Eve did not sin or commit any act to be blamed for or be ashamed of. She choose the path, the only path available, to ensure the coming forth of mankind.

[Adrienne Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe this should be required reading for everyone. This book confirms what I've always believed, but didn't know how to articulate. Women are strong, equal, necessary companions with men. Not subordinates. The priesthood is a power divined for both men AND women to partake of. The plan of happiness was not designed to put women in an inferior role to men, but rather to put men and women on equal ground, albeit with different missions that TOGETHER can be fulfilled.

To quote from the book "There is no reason for those who believe in the scriptures of the Restoration and in the words of the living prophets to be so unenlightened".

I have read this book twice now and am continuously amazed when I speak to women and men who still believe that women are inferior because they don't "hold the priesthood". How is it that women feel guilty for being a woman or believe that the pains of childbirth are a punishment? Why is Eve's choice (and Adam's BTW) to partake of the fruit erroneously considered a sin? How can people still not understand the magnificent role women are pre-ordained to play after all that has been revealed about the nature of the creation and the fall?

For your daughters' sakes, please read this book.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gives such insight and understanding to that so often misunderstood event, the fall. This book helps us see it in the proper perspective. Every woman (and every man) should read it.

[Sara B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the first half, but then the second half devolved into gender roles.

What I liked: Eve as helpmeet meaning equal in strength and power. Emphasis that the decision to partake of the fruit was mult-faceted and the more selfless decision that would require growth and difficulties rather than a life of ease in the garden. That the "curse" given to women about pain in childbirth was not a curse but just part of the instructions given to them on what life would be like and how to survive before they were sent out into the world out of the garden. That many of the passages used to oppress or subjugate women are corruptions/mistranslations so others can have power.

What I didn't like: women are inherently more spiritual than men. Why would God create half of the population inherently closer to God making them unequal? I think some people are more spiritual than others, but for most of us it requires a lot of work mixed with lots of doubts and questions. Also, she showed her privilege when she spoke that women should sacrifice all to be stay at home moms and just tighten up their finances. Now if people are able to and this is what they've decided is best for them and their families then great, but many families can in no way live on 1 income and being a SAHM may not be best for all women. There's no 1 solution or right way for all families and that should be recognized. Putting women on a pedestal or concluding womanhood=motherhood does not jive with the earlier equality that she spoke of. I have no idea what qualities of mine are inherently and eternally tied with my gender, but I don't think it is as much as she proposes.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

My book group read this book at the first of the year. The library had 16 copies and half a dozen holds so I had to go buy my own copy and I'm glad that I did. This book is a must read for every woman on the planet! It can change the way women feel about themselves. The research of Beverly Campell in writing this book was amazing...she sited scriptures, and prophets, and used experts to better define Hebrew words to give us a better understanding of what actually happened in the Garden of Eden and the amazing - very equal - very aware - role that Eve played in bringing to past the coming of humankind to the Earth. It's a short book and a fast read, however, I will be reading it again to really grasp all the truths revealed in the book. The amazing part about it, was that there was nothing new in this book. I have known the truths in this book all my life and before I came to this Earth, and as I read this book the Spirit spoke to me and in my mind I said, "Yes, I knew that."

Amazing.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book told me what I already knew, but it was a good reminder that Eve was as powerful and perfect as Adam and that women think three dimensionally where men think more straight forward. Women think "How will my decision affect others." I expecially liked the poetic statement at the end called We Will Stand. Part of which is, "I will stand--In the Garden, At the Cradle, By the Cross"...
"Out of my strength I will offer, "A comforting hand, a listening ear, a believing heart, an encouraging word, an unstinting loyalty, a pertnership of trust."

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating insight into the LDS view that Eve's choice was prescient and wise, and necessary for the human race to continue. A beautiful testament of God's enduring love for his children. At times tender and moving, at times very deep doctrinally, this book is well referenced and researched.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know if there was anything in this book that really blew my mind, but I appreciated how Campbell researched Eve from multiple angles. This is a book I could read again from time to time to understand the role of women on earth and to remember our first mother.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book...but for anyone wanting insight to the fall--The Savior and the Serpent by Alonzo Gaskill is much better.

[Hannah Degn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bev is an amazing lady, and I loved her questions and thoughts about Eve. I feel like I learned a lot and have a better understanding of the fall of Adam and Eve, Eve’s invaluable role and our continued purpose here on earth. I struggled a bit with some later chapters but with my usual issues regarding The Family Proclamation and just thinking about how sad it is that so many men in leadership roles within the church were quoted but not women regarding Eve’s role. It’s also amazing there is so much that has been said about how vital and important Eve was that is also a win!

I really would recommend this book to any of my friends who have questions or are studying about Adam/Eve/Temples/roles of men and women/marital partnerships etc. It’s clear that God wants us to be true partners and Bev really teaches that relationship existed between Adam, Eve and God.

[Deb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many of the quotes and perspectives in this book resonate with things I've thought and believed about Eve, about her choice, about her reasoning, and about her intelligence. Eve wanted to progress and knew she couldn't without partaking of the fruit. She was wise and strong and she understood the implications of what she did. The thing I like best is when the author says that because of translation errors Genesis 2:18 should actually read something like, "It is not good that man should be alone. I will make him a companion of strength and power, who has a saving power and is equal to him." She elevates a perspective of Eve to where she should have been all along. This book has positively impacted my feelings about being a woman and a daughter of God.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book because it took some of the onerous stigma from Eve. God would never have allowed Satan into the Garden of Eden unless He wanted him there. The fall had to happen or the world would never have been, Adam and Eve would have still been living in the Garden with no knowledge of anything but the Garden.
I would love to know: 1. how long Adam and Eve were in the Garden before Satan appeared; 2. how much God had taught them up to that point; 3. how long did Eve think about what Satan said before she made her decision to disobey.
And her disobedience was what God wanted all along so it's unfair to make her out to be the bad woman in the story.
It will be nice to be able to get the whole story when we cross the veil!

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were some very interesting insights into Eve's choice, particularly in the first half of the book. I felt, however, like an article, rather than a full book, could have covered the really interesting stuff. A lot of the book covered information I already knew, or that only had peripheral relevance to Eve and was more generally talking about Eve's relevance in reference to more general spiritual topics.

[Kelli Bonin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half is definitely more full of scriptures and words from prophets/apostles than the second half. The second half is more speculation and personal stories. Still I found it a great eye opening read on the story of the Garden of Eden!

I highlighted so much in the first half, there is some really great stuff there, including breaking down the meanings and original translations of the words in the story of Eden.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really opened my eyes and has inspired me to want to learn more about Eve. I've always thought there wasn't alot of information on her - tons of perspectives and thoughts - but Beverly Campbell doesn't just share her impressions and testimony about Eve she also shares scriptures (both from the Bible and Book of Mormon), publications from Bible scholars and quotes from LDS prophets and apostles. We should have more conversations about Eve!

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

The parts of the book actually about Eve and Eden were great. So great! I enjoyed the discussion of men/women motivation and thinking processes at the end of the book as well. Some of the "explanation" in-between these two sections was a bit tedious and I had a hard time feeling it was filled with Eve/Eden related insights. Over all a good book, but could limit things to the topic at hand a bit more.

[Lynette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book like scripture and wrote down my thoughts and what I learned along the way. It gave me plenty to think about and helped my understanding of the garden story. But also like the scriptures, it gives you a bigger picture of what this life is all about and what our role is in it. Loved this book.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved learning about the ancient meanings and other translations of the words used for “transgress” and “beguile.” There were lots of interesting things to think about as I read. So grateful I was introduced to this book.

[Melinda · Rating 3 out of 5]

What’s not to love about a good ol’ girl power church book?!? Some new thoughts on Eve and womanhood but more just reminders for me than a-ha moments. It was ok-ish? Teeny boring.

[Yvonne Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book on Even and her important role in the Plan of Salvation, the Lord's plan. This book ties together so well different concepts I have believed and understood, creating a more complete understanding for me and a love for Eve.

[Breanna Hopkins Johnson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the message of this book, however I still think there is a big discrepancy in how different woman are treated in the church compared to men. There were so many talks referenced from leaders of the church that state how important woman are, but I have never felt that importance in the church.

[Alli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and its perspective on what can be a tricky topic.

[Holli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but a very insightful and useful book for examining the Eden story. There is much we think we know but get wrong. Assumptions about the order of events or thinking we know what a word means. I appreciated what I learned. I listened to it on audiobook and I plan to read it too just so I can highlight things and save them for later.