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Earth's Catastrophic Past: Geology, Creation & the Flood
Two-Volume Set What does the rock record say about earth's history? This long-awaited update to Genesis Flood written by researcher Andrew Snelling, one of the world's leading geologists in the creation science movement. Earth's Catastrophic Past provides up-to-date geological evidence that demonstrates the authority and accuracy of the biblical account of creation and the Flood.
With in-depth scholarly research and insight, topics covered in this two-volume set include: The Biblical Record of the Global Genesis Flood; Non-Geological Arguments Used Against a Global Genesis Flood; Noah, the Ark, and the Animals; The Framework for a Scriptural Geology; and A Biblical Geologic Model of Earth History.
With in-depth scholarly research and insight, topics covered in this two-volume set include: The Biblical Record of the Global Genesis Flood; Non-Geological Arguments Used Against a Global Genesis Flood; Noah, the Ark, and the Animals; The Framework for a Scriptural Geology; and A Biblical Geologic Model of Earth History.
464 pages, Hardcover
First published October 30, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
October 13, 2012
This is the most accessible yet scholarly resource on geology from a bibilical worldview that I'v e discovered. I spent a week with Andrew in the Grand Canyon and can attest to his encyclopedic knowledge of geology. Carefully researched and presented, this two-volume work is not an easy read, but well worth the time investment.
January 22, 2025
First of all--I am only finished with volume 1, which goes to page 417.
Excellent presentation of the modern and up-to-date processes at work in geology today, including an excellent section on plate tectonics.
Begins with a serious consideration of the biblical record of the flood. THe second section explores the non-geological arguments used against the idea of a global Genesis flood. Snelling does a good job of interacting with these and demonstrating why they are not compelling arguments.
The third section is an excellent look at Noah and the Ark, in terms of demonstrating how and why the account should be taken as historical. Section 4 carefully examines the claims that are made or can be inferred from a straight-forward reading of Genesis chapters 1-11.
FInally, Snelling explores the modern geological synthesis, including the geologic column, its strata and rock types, the fossil record, metal ore deposits, and finally plate tectonics. This section was especially interesting as Snelling walked through the history of the development of the idea that went from basic notions of continental drift to a mature synthesis that resulted on modern observations and theories of plate tectonics.
The tone throughout is irenic and respectful, especially gratifying in a branch of science that has seen so much bitter contention. This two volume series will be useful to anyone wanting to examine a solid exploration of the geology behind a young earth perspective, without having to wade through ad hominem slanders and false depictions of either side.
I'll be reading the second volume soon, which, because of the way Goodreads grouped these two into one, it will appear as though I am re-reading this.
Merged review:
It would not be hyperbole to say that these 1100 pages are Snelling’s magnum opus. Extensively documented, irenic in tone, accessing the works and research of both conventional scientists as well as creation scientists, Snelling makes a solid case that the Genesis record of both Creation and Flood is well supported by painstaking science and empirical data.
In the Introduction, Snelling spells out why it is important to take Genesis seriously. In Section 1, he reviews the biblical record pertaining to Creation and the Flood from both the Old Testament as well as the New. This review enables the reader to understand exactly what Snelling is arguing for, as well as what he is NOT arguing for.
Section 2 considers the opposing arguments that arise outside of geology from other academic disciplines. Noah’s ark and the events surrounding it comprise Section 3. Snelling offers ideas on how the gathering, care, and Post-Flood distribution of species might have been accomplished. A suggested framework for a biblically committed geology occupies Section 4. Volume 1 concludes with Section 5, a look at the modern, conventional geologic synthesis. The Geologic Column and the rock types included in it are discussed extensively, as well as an examination of Plate Tectonics.
Section 6 leads off Volume 2 by an honest examination of the geological implications of both the Creation and Flood models. Such catastrophic events could not help but leave their finger prints on the geologic record, and Snelling shows that those finger prints do in fact exist in the geologic record. Section 7 proposes a biblical geologic model of earth history.
Section 8 considers specific problems in radioactive dating methods. Section 9 exposes contradictions in conventional geology’s treatment of comets, fluctuations in the earth’s magnetic field, sea salts and sediments, volcanic activity and the presence of helium, radiohalos, and population statistics.
Finally, Snelling concludes his magisterial work by examining geologic formations that, on the surface, seem to imply slow deposition over long time periods (i.e. conventional geological interpretations). Using actual observations and experiments Snelling shows that the supposed problems for a biblical understanding of Creation and the Flood are not as intractable as they might first appear.
Earth’s Catastrophic Past is a work of science, not primarily an exposition of Scripture, although it honors and argues for the literal biblical perspective on Creation and the Flood. Snelling documents all his assertions, statistics, facts, and experimental outcomes, whether quoting a conventional geologist or the work done by geologists committed to a biblical paradigm. The two volumes are somewhat accessible for the layman. I say somewhat, because back in the 70’s I got halfway through a degree program in geology at Colorado State before switching schools and majors, but reading Snelling’s work was stretching for me from a scientific standpoint.
In conclusion, Snelling has made a case that requires an answer. He has challenged conventional geological interpretations of earth’s history, exposing theories and conclusions that are not only not supported by the data, but blatantly contradicted by both observation and experiment. Snelling has shown that empirical observations from multiple disciplines not only make room for a biblical view of Creation and the Flood, but beyond that, are best explained by the biblical view.
Five stars, highly recommended.
Excellent presentation of the modern and up-to-date processes at work in geology today, including an excellent section on plate tectonics.
Begins with a serious consideration of the biblical record of the flood. THe second section explores the non-geological arguments used against the idea of a global Genesis flood. Snelling does a good job of interacting with these and demonstrating why they are not compelling arguments.
The third section is an excellent look at Noah and the Ark, in terms of demonstrating how and why the account should be taken as historical. Section 4 carefully examines the claims that are made or can be inferred from a straight-forward reading of Genesis chapters 1-11.
FInally, Snelling explores the modern geological synthesis, including the geologic column, its strata and rock types, the fossil record, metal ore deposits, and finally plate tectonics. This section was especially interesting as Snelling walked through the history of the development of the idea that went from basic notions of continental drift to a mature synthesis that resulted on modern observations and theories of plate tectonics.
The tone throughout is irenic and respectful, especially gratifying in a branch of science that has seen so much bitter contention. This two volume series will be useful to anyone wanting to examine a solid exploration of the geology behind a young earth perspective, without having to wade through ad hominem slanders and false depictions of either side.
I'll be reading the second volume soon, which, because of the way Goodreads grouped these two into one, it will appear as though I am re-reading this.
Merged review:
It would not be hyperbole to say that these 1100 pages are Snelling’s magnum opus. Extensively documented, irenic in tone, accessing the works and research of both conventional scientists as well as creation scientists, Snelling makes a solid case that the Genesis record of both Creation and Flood is well supported by painstaking science and empirical data.
In the Introduction, Snelling spells out why it is important to take Genesis seriously. In Section 1, he reviews the biblical record pertaining to Creation and the Flood from both the Old Testament as well as the New. This review enables the reader to understand exactly what Snelling is arguing for, as well as what he is NOT arguing for.
Section 2 considers the opposing arguments that arise outside of geology from other academic disciplines. Noah’s ark and the events surrounding it comprise Section 3. Snelling offers ideas on how the gathering, care, and Post-Flood distribution of species might have been accomplished. A suggested framework for a biblically committed geology occupies Section 4. Volume 1 concludes with Section 5, a look at the modern, conventional geologic synthesis. The Geologic Column and the rock types included in it are discussed extensively, as well as an examination of Plate Tectonics.
Section 6 leads off Volume 2 by an honest examination of the geological implications of both the Creation and Flood models. Such catastrophic events could not help but leave their finger prints on the geologic record, and Snelling shows that those finger prints do in fact exist in the geologic record. Section 7 proposes a biblical geologic model of earth history.
Section 8 considers specific problems in radioactive dating methods. Section 9 exposes contradictions in conventional geology’s treatment of comets, fluctuations in the earth’s magnetic field, sea salts and sediments, volcanic activity and the presence of helium, radiohalos, and population statistics.
Finally, Snelling concludes his magisterial work by examining geologic formations that, on the surface, seem to imply slow deposition over long time periods (i.e. conventional geological interpretations). Using actual observations and experiments Snelling shows that the supposed problems for a biblical understanding of Creation and the Flood are not as intractable as they might first appear.
Earth’s Catastrophic Past is a work of science, not primarily an exposition of Scripture, although it honors and argues for the literal biblical perspective on Creation and the Flood. Snelling documents all his assertions, statistics, facts, and experimental outcomes, whether quoting a conventional geologist or the work done by geologists committed to a biblical paradigm. The two volumes are somewhat accessible for the layman. I say somewhat, because back in the 70’s I got halfway through a degree program in geology at Colorado State before switching schools and majors, but reading Snelling’s work was stretching for me from a scientific standpoint.
In conclusion, Snelling has made a case that requires an answer. He has challenged conventional geological interpretations of earth’s history, exposing theories and conclusions that are not only not supported by the data, but blatantly contradicted by both observation and experiment. Snelling has shown that empirical observations from multiple disciplines not only make room for a biblical view of Creation and the Flood, but beyond that, are best explained by the biblical view.
Five stars, highly recommended.
November 10, 2020
I always wanted to learn about geology and this man Andrew makes it easy. You can tell he is an educator by the way the book is written. If you want evidence for Geology in YEC Andew is the man.
October 14, 2016
From e-mail to ICR~
I have now read Earth's Catastrophic Past (2nd printing: Feb. 2011) and am very thankful for the better explanation of the awesome display of God’s judgment seen in Earth's Catastrophic Past; grateful to God and all involved in producing this book for a job well done! The cover design, binding, type size, font, TOC, running heads, footnotes, and use of the Authorized Version throughout is what a book should always be. These things alone put a publication at the top in usefulness and eases readability; it lends respectability, a grandeur befitting a work about God’s works.
The index could stand expanding and a glossary would be nice. I found few misprints, typos, misspellings and wrong wordings(listed below for next revision). Very FEW; compared to Henry Morris III’s recent mess of a trilogy:( - it’s a jewel:). It has restored my faith in buying new books as most are done so poorly and frankly, after reading, The Book of Beginnings, vols 1-3, I would have asked for my money back but considered it a “give.”
Also in the “Selected Bibliography” it would’ve been nice to see mentioned works by Rehwinkel, Setterfield, Ian Taylor, Walter Lammerts, Walt Brown, Patrick Nurre, John Morris and even Harry Rimmer if you could stand it. And for the price it would be reasonable to have included a digital version.
Now all that was just about the physical construction of a book that impressed me because I love books and feel they should reflect back to THE Book in some way more than we see anymore; like a judges bar and robes should bespeak of THE Judge. The contents doubled all that; the subject vital to so many things in religious and secular fields. God bless you all, especially Dr. Snelling of course; may this work revitalize Creation truth effect and give you all well-deserved rewards.
Ps. Being from the Pacific Northwest I looked (along about page 1003)in the chapter on Regional Metamorphism for a mention of pyrite nodules in shale-like layers within our coastal Astoria Formation but saw nothing on it.
Also, what food did the sea critters have i. e., what did the fishies eat?
And, is there a relation or similarity between cavitation and water hammer?
Thanks for all the good and many blessings received since 1972 when I first came on board.
Errata
Pg. 100 .... “Minneapolis, MO” should be “Minneapolis, MN”
Pg. 365 .... “so as far” should be “so far as”
Pg. 391 .... “asthensophere” should be “asthenosphere”
Pg. 395 .... “aulocagen” should be “aulacogen”
Pg. 427 .... “Minneapolis, MO” should be “Minneapolis, MN”
Pg. 570 .... “morality” should be “mortality”
Pg. 631 .... “could termed” should be “could be termed”
Pg. 760 .... “Since it hard” should be “Since it is hard”
Pg. 799 .... “datingreview” should be “dating review”
Pg. 918 .... “This is same” should be “This is the same”
Pg. 936 .... “Ground Canyon” should be “Grand Canyon”
Pg. 1002 .. “S. J. Turner” should be “F. J. Turner”
Pg. 1003 .. “Thus. they” should be “Thus they”
Pg. 1026 .. “boulder payments” should be “boulder pavements”
I have now read Earth's Catastrophic Past (2nd printing: Feb. 2011) and am very thankful for the better explanation of the awesome display of God’s judgment seen in Earth's Catastrophic Past; grateful to God and all involved in producing this book for a job well done! The cover design, binding, type size, font, TOC, running heads, footnotes, and use of the Authorized Version throughout is what a book should always be. These things alone put a publication at the top in usefulness and eases readability; it lends respectability, a grandeur befitting a work about God’s works.
The index could stand expanding and a glossary would be nice. I found few misprints, typos, misspellings and wrong wordings(listed below for next revision). Very FEW; compared to Henry Morris III’s recent mess of a trilogy:( - it’s a jewel:). It has restored my faith in buying new books as most are done so poorly and frankly, after reading, The Book of Beginnings, vols 1-3, I would have asked for my money back but considered it a “give.”
Also in the “Selected Bibliography” it would’ve been nice to see mentioned works by Rehwinkel, Setterfield, Ian Taylor, Walter Lammerts, Walt Brown, Patrick Nurre, John Morris and even Harry Rimmer if you could stand it. And for the price it would be reasonable to have included a digital version.
Now all that was just about the physical construction of a book that impressed me because I love books and feel they should reflect back to THE Book in some way more than we see anymore; like a judges bar and robes should bespeak of THE Judge. The contents doubled all that; the subject vital to so many things in religious and secular fields. God bless you all, especially Dr. Snelling of course; may this work revitalize Creation truth effect and give you all well-deserved rewards.
Ps. Being from the Pacific Northwest I looked (along about page 1003)in the chapter on Regional Metamorphism for a mention of pyrite nodules in shale-like layers within our coastal Astoria Formation but saw nothing on it.
Also, what food did the sea critters have i. e., what did the fishies eat?
And, is there a relation or similarity between cavitation and water hammer?
Thanks for all the good and many blessings received since 1972 when I first came on board.
Errata
Pg. 100 .... “Minneapolis, MO” should be “Minneapolis, MN”
Pg. 365 .... “so as far” should be “so far as”
Pg. 391 .... “asthensophere” should be “asthenosphere”
Pg. 395 .... “aulocagen” should be “aulacogen”
Pg. 427 .... “Minneapolis, MO” should be “Minneapolis, MN”
Pg. 570 .... “morality” should be “mortality”
Pg. 631 .... “could termed” should be “could be termed”
Pg. 760 .... “Since it hard” should be “Since it is hard”
Pg. 799 .... “datingreview” should be “dating review”
Pg. 918 .... “This is same” should be “This is the same”
Pg. 936 .... “Ground Canyon” should be “Grand Canyon”
Pg. 1002 .. “S. J. Turner” should be “F. J. Turner”
Pg. 1003 .. “Thus. they” should be “Thus they”
Pg. 1026 .. “boulder payments” should be “boulder pavements”
May 22, 2015
Absolutely wonderful college level text on biblical creation. I loved it!
April 16, 2017
Hard to follow for those not trained in Geology.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews