Book 8 Summary

Raphael has finished his story, and Adam thanks him. Despite all he has heard, Adam still feels doubt, and thirsts for more knowledge. He has been comparing the Earth and sky, and wonders why it is that the vast sky rotates around the smaller Earth. Eve leaves to tend the plants outside. She prefers to learn from Adam, rather than from the angel.

Raphael tells Adam that God's works are meant to be admired rather than questioned. Just because the skies are brighter and vaster than Earth does not mean that they hold more good. Man has his own place, and the rest is planned for purposes known only to God. It is better not to probe into matters that God has hidden.

Adam's doubts have been cleared, and he thanks Raphael for simplifying his complex thoughts. Now, Adam wishes to tell his...