The Book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible and the first book of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah or the Books of Moses. It contains the earliest history of God’s creation and the beginnings of the people of Israel.
The name Genesis comes from the Greek word meaning “beginning,” “origin,” or “birth.” The name reflects the book’s account of the beginnings of creation, humanity, sin, the covenant, and the people of Israel.
According to Holy Tradition, Genesis was written primarily by the Prophet Moses, approximately 1,300 years before the birth of Christ. The book traces the story from the creation of the world through the lives of the patriarchs, including Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, establishing the foundation for the history of Israel that follows in the remaining books of the Pentateuch.
In the liturgical life of the Orthodox Church, almost the entire Book of Genesis is read by a reader during Great Lent and Holy Week. Portions of Genesis are also appointed to be read on the eves of certain feast days.