Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #3 — Genesis 2:18 “Helper”

Picture: Counsel #3 — Genesis 2:18 “Helper” CI 68.1

The meaning of ezer kenegdo (often translated “helper”) in Genesis 22:18b is: “A power like him, facing him as equal, strength, to rescue.” Ezer kenegdo does not connotate inferior status or skill.^[66] In 17 out of the 21 times ezer kenegdo occurs in Scripture, it actually refers to God Himself. In marriage, woman is to be an empowering strength to her husband, as he should be to her. Biblical femininity includes encouraging, helping, supporting, and empowering other people. CI 68.2

Jesus came to restore the image of God in humanity. And so, the church and the family — Christ’s representatives on Earth — should work toward the order of creation and redemption, not that of the fall. In worship, time usage, diet, gendered relationships, and all other aspects of life, we should seek the Eden ideal wherever possible in organization and practice. CI 68.3

“And the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.’” Genesis 2:18 NKJV CI 68.4

“Eve was created from a rib taken from the side of Adam, signifying that she was not to control him as the head, not to be trampled under his feet as an inferior, but to stand by his side as an equal, to be loved and protected by him.” Ellen White in Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 46 CI 68.5

Reflect: How could you work with grace and charity toward restoring the Eden ideal in your church and family? CI 68.6