Was There A Big Bang?

As with many questions about the universe and its creation, the answer depends on whom you ask. There is a huge segment of the world population that does not believe in the big-bang theory or any other scientific explanation for the beginning of our universe. There is another segment of the population, also quite large, that believes the universe did begin with a big bang.

In its most basic terms, the big-bang theory states that the universe began as a small kernel of energy with enormous mass. All matter we observe in space came from this origin, according to the theory. At some random point the kernel of mass energy exploded or moved outward quickly in all directions.

Some individuals have come up with a compromise between the creation theory as presented in the Bible and the big-bang theory. This new theory states that there may have been a big bang but it was directed or started by God. Those who hold to the letter of Scripture (and to the teachings of other world religions) reject this combination theory just as they do the big-bang theory.

Some of the key elements of the big-bang theory are: stars formed first; planets such as Earth formed later; plants were the first living things; birds evolved from reptiles; the Sun is made of a gathering of other stars. Some of the data and information gathered in recent years supports at least part of the big-bang theory. To this way of thinking, the universe developed quickly and most of the major celestial bodies were soon in place, just as we know them today.

Not Enough

To many scientists the big-bang theory just doesn’t provide adequate answers to the many questions we ask about the universe. At the very heart of the doubter’s argument is the question of where the original kernel of energy/mass came from. To adopt the big bang as your explanation of the universe and its creation you have to start from this: There was this kernel of mass/energy.

Many people have also asked what started the bang. They compare the creation of the universe to an explosion, which means there must have been some sort of spark or a fuse to be lit. If all matter was first concentrated in one small location, would gravity keep it there without a huge explosion?

Scientists have also taken issue with the formation of galaxies and constellations. If the universe began in one massive explosion, matter would move outward from this central point. There would simply be a random spray of matter and celestial bodies. If this is true, the universe would continue to expand outward and there would be no formation of galaxies and grouped stars.

One of the key questions about the big-bang theory asks about the presence of living things. If there was one random explosion that sent matter in all directions there would certainly be life on other celestial bodies, as there is on Earth. This has not been proven. Yet?