Biblical chronology, derived from genealogical records and lifespan accounts within the Old Testament, offers a timeline for the age of the Earth and human history. Calculations based on these texts, primarily from the genealogies in Genesis, have historically been used to estimate the time elapsed since creation. Different interpretations and variations in the texts, as well as differing methodologies in calculation, lead to a range of proposed ages.
The significance of establishing an age for the Earth based on scriptural interpretations lies in its perceived implications for understanding the relationship between faith and science. Historically, these calculations have played a role in debates surrounding creationism, evolution, and the geological timescale. A young Earth, as suggested by some interpretations, contrasts with the widely accepted scientific consensus of an Earth billions of years old. The perceived benefits of accepting a biblically derived age include reinforcing the literal interpretation of scripture and providing a framework for understanding the world through a religious lens.
