I've often wondered about this too – Tree being there in the first place seems to represent free will.
Sometimes the things that are the hardest for us have the most to teach us... so eating the apple seemed like an opportunity to learn.
Isn't the serpent coiling the tree like DNA or the things that go round the emmmm staff that represents healing, I'm sure there is meaning to that - but it eludes me atm?
So I can relate to your interpretation Lorna it makes more sense without the punishment thing.
**Edit**
Just thought this morning - Could it mean the human change from 2d to 3d? - the Garden of Eden representing pure growth and self sufficiency like a plant or animal.
Eating the fruit changes to 3d with self awarness and all the opportunities to learn our true nature, often threw painful lessons.
Sometimes the things that are the hardest for us have the most to teach us... so eating the apple seemed like an opportunity to learn.
Isn't the serpent coiling the tree like DNA or the things that go round the emmmm staff that represents healing, I'm sure there is meaning to that - but it eludes me atm?
So I can relate to your interpretation Lorna it makes more sense without the punishment thing.
**Edit**
Just thought this morning - Could it mean the human change from 2d to 3d? - the Garden of Eden representing pure growth and self sufficiency like a plant or animal.
Eating the fruit changes to 3d with self awarness and all the opportunities to learn our true nature, often threw painful lessons.