We’re all familiar with the tired stereotype of the “God of the Old Testament,” a capricious creator who subjects his chosen people to endless cycles of punishment and retribution. 

But in her reading of the Book of Genesis, novelist and essayist Marilynne Robinson describes a God of gentleness, one wildly in love with creation and humanity.

In this special episode of the Commonweal Podcast, moderated by senior editor Matt Boudway, poet and memoirist Christian Wiman joins Robinson for a conversation about the Book of Genesis. 

Robinson and Wiman also discuss scripture and theology more generally—especially as the two practice it through fiction and poetry. 

For further reading: 

• Marilynne Robinson on forgiveness in Genesis
• Christian Wiman on the Bible as poetry
• Jack Miles on the Bible and translation