Question
Gramps,
I’ve been studying a lot about Adam and Eve and the Fall. Through various quotes from modern day prophets, it’s pretty clear that Adam and Eve were aware of the plan and what would have to take place in order to start the mortal probation of mankind. They were foreordained for this very task. So I’m curious as to why Adam would turn down the temptation to partake of the forbidden fruit when he was aware of what must be done. Why was it Eve that ended up partaking of it first?
Rachel
Answer
Rachel,
How much of your pre-mortal life do you remember? Adam and Eve were in the same position as you and I when they were first created in the garden of Eden. They knew nothing and were like little children — innocent before God.
It is true though, Adam and Eve before they were placed in the garden of Eden did know of their task. They both knew they would be the first of the human race, the sons and daughters of God; however, we also know when they were placed in the garden they were innocent like children having no knowledge of their past, nor what they were foreordained to do and accomplish. This is made clear in scripture and in the temple.
So, to directly answer your first question of, “So I’m curious as to why Adam would turn down the temptation to partake of the forbidden fruit when he was aware of what must be done.” Adam did not remember his pre-mortal life, as such, he didn’t know what must be done. Adam turned down Satan’s proposal/temptations because he was obedient to the Father.
As to your second question, “Why was it Eve that ended up partaking of it first?” Well, Eve was the first to understand that in order to become like the Father she needed to partake of the fruit. We can theorize why that might be so, but in all (as there isn’t anything beyond this in scripture), it is just that — theory (personal opinion). I, personally, though really like the new videos in the temple and how they present Eve during this experience.
Gramps
