Hexameron

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This article is about the theological concept. For the collaborative composition, see Hexameron (musical composition).

Hexameron Η Εξαήμερος Δημιουργία is the theological belief that the universe was created in six days. It was espoused by Saint Basil in his work of the same title, which was written around 370 AD. The word derives from the Greek roots hexa-, meaning "six", and (h)emer(a), meaning "day".

Basil originally performed the work as a series of sermons, and later collected them into a written work which was influential amongst early church leaders. Through Hexaemeron, we get many clues about the scientific knowledge of 4th century A.D.(Spheric Earth, Atmosphere, Stars and Suns, a primitive form of the theory of Evolution) and we can understand that science and religion was harmonically blended in the early church.

The days of creation are claimed as follows:

1 Light

2 The firmament of Heaven

3 Separation of water and land, created plant life;

4 Sun, moon, and stars

5 Marine life and birds

6 Land animals, and man and woman.

7 The seventh day is reserved for rest (Sabbath), and so is not counted by Basil.