Earth is Not The Paradise of God
When Adam and Eve first arrived on earth, they were placed in a beautiful garden that came to be known as the Garden of Eden. But it was never known as a paradise. Our research reveals that there was a specific Hebrew word for “paradise” and it was not used in reference to the Garden of Eden.
However, the Bible does refer to a place called “paradise” in three specific instances:
(1) As Jesus’ kingdom, the promised destination for those who exercised faith:
“Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’”
– Luke 23:42
(2) As a heavenly place where the Apostle Paul apparently visited:
“And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell.”
– 2 Corinthians 12:3-4
(3) And as the heavenly place of God:
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
– Revelation 2:7
Each of these references identify paradise as a place located somewhere other than earth. While the earth has the potential to be truly beautiful, that would not be the equivalent of a true paradise. We are told:
“However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him.”
– 1 Corinthians 2:9
