Evidence suggests that energy preceded matter -- ie that light preceded earth, heaven and water.

Look, the Bible is an anthology of twisted fairytales that's been an absolute bonanza of story fuel for the western tradition. But it's not exactly replete with reliable scientific information.

I'm actually rather fond of certain portions of Leviticus which describe diagnostic rituals.

I like how detailed the builder's specs for the tabernacle are. Paaaaages and paaaaages of expensive building materials. "The curtain tassels should totally be gold-plated platinum. PS my brother gets all the juicy cuts of lamb, God only likes the organs to be burnt".

Meanwhile, explicating the meaning and purpose of the Ten Commandments in all the thousands of odd corner cases -- including big ones like war -- are left as an exercise for the reader.

Wow have we gotten off-topic. Sorry HNers.

In so far as this sub thread has been polite and respectful (70% of it), it's an enjoyable digression.

I see nothing wrong with the occasional gold thread in a red tapestry.

The Universe is about 13.75 Gyrs old while Earth is about 4.54 Gyrs old.