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In this 2002 file photo, a man using drawings of a horse to discuss the evolution theory while promoting the concept of intelligent design during a speaking engagement in Ohio.(Photo by Phil Long/Ohio Press Photosystem)

By Rabbi David Krishef

This week's question was sent in by 'Jane E.' She wonders: "How does your tradition's worldview understand the origin of life: evolution or intelligent design?"

My response: Torah describes creation by Divine word, rather than by evolution. However, most forms of contemporary Judaism accept evolution as a scientific description of creation and read Genesis as a theological description of creation.

Fred Wooden, the senior pastor of Fountain Street Church, responds:

Fred Stella, the Pracharak (Outreach Minister) for the West Michigan Hindu Temple, responds:

Aly Mageed, a Shura member of the Islamic Mosque and Religious Institute of Grand Rapids, responds:

Father Kevin Niehoff, O.P., a Dominican priest who serves as Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Diocese of Grand Rapids, responds:

David Spearman, the senior pastor of the Faith Ministries Center Church, responds:

Ethics and Religion Talk is compiled and written by David Krishef, rabbi at Congregation Ahavas Israel in Grand Rapids. Krishef takes questions from readers and shares them with a panel of clergy, then provides the responses in collaboration with community engagement specialist Zane McMillin. The views expressed are those of the panelists and do not necessarily represent the official perspectives of their congregations or denominations. Please submit questions from your own day-to-day encounters to EthicsAndReligionTalk@gmail.com.