Genus and Species Theory in Lexicography: A Historical and Theological Analysis

In lexicon and lexicography, the concepts of genus and species are fundamental terms used to classify and organize language and knowledge. However, the question of whether a species theory exists in the context of these fields often leads to discussions integrating elements from biology, theology, and biblical studies. This article explores the historical and theological roots of these concepts, particularly as they are used in the context of biological classification and creationist views.

Introduction to Genus and Species

When we look up genus and species in a dictionary, the definitions typically focus on the hierarchical system of biological classification. However, it is important to note that the usage of these terms extends beyond their biological applications. In linguistics, genus can be understood as a broader category that encompasses a more specific species. For example, colour is a genus, while specific colors like blue fall under the species category.

The Genesis of Genus and Species

The terms genus and species originated from Latin, with roots in ancient languages. In biblical and theological contexts, these terms have deep historical ties that predate Linnaeus's system of classification. The Latin Vulgate Bible, translated by Saint Jerome in 384 AD, uses the terms in chapters related to creation. For instance, in Genesis 1:21, the text states:

“And God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves with which the waters swarm according to their species and omne volatile secundum genus suum.”

Here, species and genus are often translated as "kinds," reflecting the original Hebrew term min. Scholars such as Calvin Tyrtius, Gill, and Linnaeus recognized that both genus and species were historically used in reference to min, the concept of a created kind.

The Biblical Perspective on Genus and Species

From a theological perspective, the concept of kind (min) is central to understanding creation. For example, in Genesis 2:3, Matthew Henry's commentary states, "There would be no new species created after creation week was completed." This fixed understanding of species as created kinds led to the idea of the fixity of species, where each kind was considered a stable, unchanged group of organisms.

The Evolution of Species Theory

With the advent of modern biological systems and the influence of evolution, the definition of species began to change. Evolutionary biologists introduced new definitions of species, which led to the multiplicity of definitions that exist today. For instance, modern definitions of species do not necessarily equate with the biblical kind. This redefinition created confusion and led to the "fixity of species" becoming a controversial topic.

The fixity of species idea – that different species, such as wolves, dingos, coyotes, and collies, were once seen as variations within one species – began to be questioned as new definitions of species emerged. These changes were often seen as evidence against the biblical fixity of kinds and led to a public perception that the church and the Bible were mistaken.

Baraminology: A Biblical Approach to Classification

To address these confusions, creationists developed the field of baraminology to better understand the concept of created kinds. Baraminology includes concepts such as monobaramin (a group of organisms that share a common created kind), apobaramin (a group that may be in different created kinds), and holobaramin (a group comprising all members of a single created kind). These terms help scientists and theologians to clarify the boundaries between created kinds.

Conclusion

The concepts of genus and species in lexicography have rich historical and theological roots. Understanding these terms requires a nuanced view that appreciates their biological, linguistic, and theological dimensions. As we continue to explore the boundaries between created kinds, baraminology provides a framework that can help reconcile scientific and biblical perspectives on biological diversity.