Chapter 1: Understanding Models in Our Lives

The phrase "All models are wrong" is not a critique of fashion models but a significant statement from British statistician George E.P. Box, who further adds that "some models are useful." This highlights that models are simplifications of reality and often serve as valuable representations or approximations of truth, though they never capture the complete essence of that truth. In our everyday lives, we create and utilize a variety of models—physical, visual, parametric, mathematical, software-based, and even mental models.

While preparing a Bible study for Shabbat, I came across an assertion by the author of the lesson: "...Despite various myths suggesting that the universe emerged from nothing or some mathematical equation, we believe our universe exists because God, the Creator, made it and everything within it."

I hold the author in high regard and share many of the beliefs within our faith community. We affirm the existence of God (though I cannot provide empirical proof, I have personal experiences). In Isaiah 1:18, He invites us to engage in reasoning with Him. With that invitation, let’s explore the author’s statement further.

The notion of "myths about the universe arising from absolutely nothing" reflects a belief that posits "our universe exists because God created it." This perspective suggests that the universe was intentionally designed by a divine being. (I will postpone a discussion on "intelligent design" for another occasion.)

Scientific evidence supports the Big Bang theory, which has garnered Nobel Prizes for its proponents. While biblical creation narratives are challenging to validate scientifically, many of us embrace these stories through faith. Skeptics and nonbelievers might adopt variations of the Big Bang theory, offering alternative explanations for the universe's state before the "bang," or they may refrain from speculation due to a lack of consistent evidence. Conversely, individuals of faith may accept the Big Bang theory and interpret it as an expression of divine creativity, akin to Genesis 1:1.

Now, regarding the skepticism associated with "some kind of mathematical equation," we find that mathematical models (and software coding) serve as symbolic frameworks that, when rigorously tested, can closely represent reality. The best practice in analytical modeling involves verification and validation against credible data. In contrast, the mental models that underpin religious beliefs can be (but are not always) linked to some form of evidence, whether tangible, observable, or measurable.

In this regard, I diverge from the author of the Bible study and align with an analytical perspective on understanding creation, grounded in credible scientific evidence. While overlaps may exist between cosmological mathematical models (supported by data) and theological mental models (that shape the creation narrative), some inherent conflicts are likely, as cosmologists and theologians may hold differing views on the universe's state before the Big Bang.

"Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts."

Please feel free to share your insights, check out our podcast, and be blessed.

Chapter 2: The Role of Faith and Science in Understanding Creation

The first video, "All Models Are Wrong," delves into the philosophical underpinnings of modeling in science and its implications for understanding reality.

The second video, also titled "All Models Are Wrong," further explores how various models, including scientific and religious ones, shape our understanding of the universe.