what does the bible say?
Young earth creationists view the Earth as approximately 6,000 - 10,000 years old, based on a literal interpretation of the Biblical text. Radiometric dating, on the other hand, relies on the measured decay rates of radioactive isotopes of uranium, potassium and other elements. This method provides age estimates for the formation of Earth of around 4.5 billion years.
Scientific instruments cannot directly measure age as a physical property. Age is the length of time an object has existed. If the object, such as a rock or the Earth, was not observed when it was formed, then its age may be estimated by radiometric dating. Radiometric dating methods rely on assumptions about the initial conditions and decay rates of radioactive isotopes, introducing uncertainties in the calculated ages.
The ancient Hebrews were not overly concerned about when creation occurred, nor the precise age of Earth. They would have understood the Genesis account as a testament to God’s power, wisdom, and love, rather than as a source of scientific information about the age of the Earth. When science and faith appear to be in conflict, leaving us unsure what to believe, we should trust the Bible and wait for further light on the details.