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The creation story in the Torah is regarded by many Jews as an important statement of the belief that the one God created all things. Many would argue that as a story, one 'day' could refer to any length of time. So the seven days of the creation story could refer to seven long periods of time.

The order in which living things were created according to the Torah is similar to the order scientists accept life was created (plants, sea creatures, flying creatures, land animals and finally humans).

The questions asked by science and Judaism about the origins of the universe are different. Science is more concerned with how the process happened. Judaism is concerned with why God chose to create the Earth and explaining the existence and purpose of human beings.

Therefore, for many Jews, evolution and creation are compatible.

Why are they compatible?

• The creation story in Genesis does not seek to offer a scientific answer to questions about the origins of the universe.
• It is more concerned with making it clear that God is in complete control of the universe and that the universe exists because God wants it to.
• Theistic evolution argues that God designed the universe and the Earth for a purpose.
• Intelligent design argues that everything is planned and designed by God, and that each and every change that takes place is the direct working of God in creation.

Some Orthodox Jews, particularly Charedi Jews, disagree with this. For them, the theory of evolution is not compatible with Judaism because it appears to contradict teachings in the Torah.