The Influence of the Bible - Genesis

The enormity of the influence of the Bible on Western culture really struck me this month as I was reading through Genesis. From art to music to literature to politics the Bible has been a foundation for everything from culture to government.

Consider the select following (many more could be listed) just from the book of Genesis.

Common Sayings
"the forbidden fruit" (doing something we know to be wrong) - Genesis 2:17
"raising Cain" (causing trouble) - Genesis 4:8
"Adam's apple" (the central ridge of thyroid cartilage at the base of the throat, prominent in males. According to The Bible and Its Influence, "...[this name was] based on a legend which says that a bit of the forbidden fruit lodged in Adam's throat as a warning of the grief to come.) - Genesis 3:6
"fire and brimstone" (a dire consequence) - Genesis 19:24

Books
East of Eden by John Steinbeck - Genesis 4:16
Paradise Lost by John Milton - Genesis 3:6

"Of Mans First Disobedience, and the Fruit
Of that Forbidden Tree, whose mortal taste
Brought Death into the World, and all our woe,
With loss of Eden, till one greater Man
Restore us, and regain the blissful Seat,
Sing Heav'nly Muse,..."

Art
The oft-parodied, but still beautiful, fresco by Michelangelo, The Creation of Adam. (1508-1512. Sistine Chapel, Vatican) - Genesis 1:26-27

Jacob's Dream by Marc Chagall - Genesis 28:12

Isaac Blesses Jacob by Jose de Ribera - Genesis 27:22-29

Joseph's Bloody Coat Brought to Jacob by Velasquez - Genesis 37:31-35

The influence of the Bible is pervasive and important in the culture of the West.