Why is the Earth only 6,000 years old, as per Bible stories?

 The belief that the Earth is approximately 6,000 years old is rooted in a literal interpretation of certain passages in the Bible, particularly in the book of Genesis. This perspective is associated with a theological framework known as Young Earth Creationism. Here are some key points that contribute to the belief in a young Earth:

1. **Biblical Genealogies:** The calculation of the Earth's age is often derived from genealogies provided in the Bible, especially in the book of Genesis. Scholars and adherents of Young Earth Creationism trace the lineage of biblical figures, such as Adam and Noah, and use these genealogies to estimate the age of the Earth.

2. **Creation Days:** In the book of Genesis, the creation account describes the world being created in six days, with God resting on the seventh day. Some interpreters argue that each "day" represents a literal 24-hour period, leading to the conclusion that the Earth is relatively young.

3. **Ussher Chronology:** James Ussher, an Irish archbishop, calculated a chronology based on biblical genealogies and events. In the early 17th century, Ussher estimated that the Earth was created in 4004 BCE. This timeline has influenced some Young Earth Creationist beliefs.

4. **Resistance to Evolutionary Theory:** Young Earth Creationism is often associated with a rejection of evolutionary theories that propose a much older Earth. Adherents argue that the biblical account of creation is a literal, historical record that should be prioritized over scientific theories.

It's crucial to note that the belief in a young Earth is not universally accepted within Christian theology. Many Christians, including those within mainstream denominations, interpret the creation narratives in Genesis more symbolically or allegorically. They may reconcile religious beliefs with scientific evidence supporting an Earth that is approximately 4.5 billion years old, based on methods such as radiometric dating.

In modern times, there is a broad spectrum of perspectives within Christianity regarding the relationship between faith and science. Some Christians accept mainstream scientific views on the age of the Earth and evolution, emphasizing the compatibility between religious faith and scientific understanding.