Adam
First Man
Adam is the first human in all Abrahamic traditions. His creation and fall shape theology across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Restoration adds the doctrine of a fortunate fall and Adam's role as Michael the archangel.
Across Traditions
Judaism
Name
Adam
Role
First human and ancestor of all
Summary
Adam was created from the dust of the earth and placed in the Garden of Eden. Jewish tradition emphasizes that all humans descend from one ancestor, establishing the unity and equality of humanity. The fall is seen not as original sin but as the beginning of human moral responsibility.
Source Text
And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life
Genesis 2:7
Christianity
Name
Adam
Role
First man and origin of original sin
Summary
Adam's disobedience brought sin and death into the world, necessitating Christ's atonement. Paul contrasts Adam and Christ: through one man sin entered, through one man grace abounds. Adam is the type, Christ is the antitype.
Source Text
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive
1 Corinthians 15:22
Islam
Name
Adam
Role
First prophet and khalifah (vicegerent)
Summary
Adam is the first prophet in Islam, created by God and taught the names of all things. He and Hawwa (Eve) were placed in the Garden, ate from the forbidden tree, repented, and were forgiven. There is no concept of inherited original sin. Adam was appointed as God's khalifah (representative) on earth.
Source Text
And He taught Adam the names — all of them. Then He showed them to the angels and said, Inform Me of the names of these, if you are truthful
Quran 2:31
LDS
Name
Adam / Michael
Role
First man, archangel, and priesthood holder
Summary
Adam is identified as the archangel Michael who helped create the earth and led the forces of God in the pre-mortal war in heaven. His fall was a necessary step in God's plan — 'Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.' He holds the keys of the First Presidency under Christ.
Source Text
Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy
2 Nephi 2:25
Connected Figures
Theme
Common Ground
Description
All traditions honor Adam as the first human, created by God. The Garden of Eden narrative and the consequences of eating the forbidden fruit are shared across all four.
Theme
Unique Insight
Description
Judaism and Islam do not teach original sin — Adam's transgression brought consequences but not inherited guilt. Christianity and LDS both teach the Fall was universal in scope but differ on its nature.
Theme
Restoration Addition
Description
The Restoration uniquely identifies Adam as the archangel Michael and teaches the Fall was a deliberate, necessary step forward in God's plan rather than a tragedy.