What is the primary purpose of the Book of Genesis?

The primary purpose of the Book of Genesis is to remind God's people of their creation and vice-regency. Genesis lays the foundational narratives for both the Jewish and Christian faiths by describing the creation of the world, the establishment of humanity, and the special relationship between God and humanity. It emphasizes the idea that humans are created in the image of God and are given the role of caretakers or vice-regents of creation, underscoring their responsibility and relationship to the Creator.

This focus on creation and humanity’s role sets the stage for the rest of the biblical narrative, including the development of the nation of Israel and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. In contrast, while laws, genealogies, and historical records are significant elements in the Bible, they do not capture the overarching theme of Genesis itself. Instead, they serve different purposes in the larger biblical narrative.