Adam and Eve

According to numerous scholars, it is widely believed that the sense of shame experienced by Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:10 did not stem from their nakedness, which God had created and deemed good, but rather from their awareness of having transgressed God’s command.

The interpretation that Adam and Eve’s sense of shame in Genesis 3:10 primarily stemmed from their disobedience to God, rather than from their nakedness per se, is a perspective held by many scholars and theologians. This interpretation aligns with a broader theological understanding of the narrative of the Fall in Genesis 3. Key points to consider in this interpretation include:

Disobedience as Central

The narrative clearly presents Adam and Eve’s disobedience to God’s command not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil as the central issue. Their realization of their own nakedness and their attempts to hide from God occur as a consequence of their disobedience.

Awareness of Wrongdoing

After eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve became aware of their wrongdoing and experienced guilt and shame. Their disobedience disrupted their harmonious relationship with God.

Symbolism of Nakedness

In this context, the symbolism of nakedness can be seen as a representation of their vulnerability and exposure, both spiritually and morally. It is not the nakedness itself that is condemned, but the awareness of their sinful state.

Theological Themes

Genesis 3 addresses broader theological themes, including the consequences of sin, human vulnerability, and the need for redemption. These themes are central to the narrative.

Different interpretations of this passage exist among theologians and religious traditions, each emphasizing different aspects of the story. The interpretation you mentioned underscores the idea that the primary focus of the narrative is disobedience and its consequences, with nudity being a secondary issue that arises as a result.