Plant Mathematics

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Many plants, including the elm or linden trees, grow their leaves, twigs and branches placed exactly half way around the stem from each other.

Next in the series are plants, like the beech tree, with leaves placed one-third of a way around the stem from the previous leaves. Third in the series are plants like the oak with leaves placed at two fifths of a turn. Plants like the holly are next at three-eighths, while larches are next at five-thirteenths – and the sequence goes on. Notice the number sequence of these fractions: 1,1,2,3,5,8,13, and so on. Each number is the sum of the two numbers that come just before it in the sequence. This particular mathematical pattern is called the Fibonacci series. Such mathematical precision is not arrived at by accident.

We marvel at how God has stitched the patterns of the material world onto a mathematical fabric that cannot be missed by those who study it. Such mathematical precision can only be the product of power and intelligence, even as Paul says in Romans One, “What may be known about God is manifest…His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made.” And while they are not yet flocking to the Bible, this is why many scientists are beginning to have doubts about the theory of evolution!

Romans 1:20
“For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead so that they are without excuse.”

Prayer:
Father in heaven, mathematics is among Your excellent and wise creations. Use this creation of Yours to speak to the wise of the world about Your work of creation, and use me to speak forgiving grace in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Ref: Murchie, Guy. 1979. “The exquisite mathematics of nature.” Science Digest, Apr. p. 48. Photo: Oak tree foliage and acorns. Courtesy of Nick Shaforostoff. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.