Designing with the Divine, pt. 1

7 lessons from the Bible’s creation story; Genesis 1

The creation story in the Bible, as detailed in the book of Genesis, is well known, even among non-Christians. One thing that fascinates me about the creation story is the repetition of the phrase, “And God saw that it was good” after every creation.

As we delve into the creation story, we uncover profound design lessons that resonate across time and culture.

1. Embracing the flow

The phrase “And God saw that it was good” suggests that allowing ideas to flow freely, being relaxed and less critical at the start of the design process, can lead to surprising discoveries and happy accidents that result in exceptional designs.

2. Reflecting God’s creativity

According to Genesis 1:26–27, humankind is created in the image and likeness of God. This implies that we inherit God’s creativity and can utilize our creative skills to create and build new things, reflecting God’s own creativity.

3. Expressing personal essence

Just as God’s creations are a reflection of His goodness, our designs are an expression of ourselves. Genesis 1:31 emphasizes that God’s creations were good, indicating that our creativity is an extension of our life experiences, choices, and challenges. By being original and staying true to ourselves, our designs can also embody ‘goodness’.

4. Thoughtful planning and attention to detail

The creation story highlights the value of planning and paying attention to even the tiniest details. God’s meticulous approach to each step of creation serves as an example for Designers to be thoughtful and thorough, ensuring the quality and impact of their designs.

5. Finding inspiration through rest

Genesis 2:2–3 illustrates that God rested on the seventh day after completing His work. This emphasizes the importance of taking time to rest and rejuvenate. By engaging in activities that inspire and refuel our creativity, we can enhance the quality of our design work.

6. The power of collaboration

In Genesis 1:26, God says, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” This shows that God worked with other beings to create the world. Similarly, Designers can benefit from collaborating with others, harnessing diverse perspectives and skills to create designs that surpass individual capabilities.

7. Storytelling for meaningful design

The creation story is not just an explanation of how the world came to be; it is also a powerful story that conveys important messages and lessons. Designers can use storytelling techniques to bring depth and meaning to their designs, effectively communicating ideas and creating impactful experiences for their audience.

The creation story offers valuable insights for Designers, inspiring a profound connection between our creative endeavors and the divine. By embracing the flow of ideas, reflecting our own creative essence, planning thoughtfully, finding inspiration through rest, collaborating with others, and employing storytelling techniques, we unlock new dimensions of creativity and create designs that transcend the ordinary.

In what other ways does the creation story inform and enhance your design practice? Feel free to share.