What does the gap theory propose about evolutionary ages?

The gap theory proposes that there were long periods of time, often interpreted as millions of years, between the events described in the book of Genesis. Specifically, it suggests that an extensive interval, or "gap," exists between the creation of the Earth and the subsequent events of the creation week. This theory seeks to harmonize the scientific understanding of Earth's age with a literal interpretation of biblical creation by allowing the process of evolution and the formation of the Earth to have occurred in this intervening time.

The notion is often illustrated by emphasizing that the initial creation (Genesis 1:1) might refer to a primordial creation that includes significant geological epochs, followed by a more recent, structured creation described in the following verses (Genesis 1:2-2:3).

This perspective allows for the incorporation of geological and fossil evidence, which suggests that life on Earth developed over billions of years, while still maintaining a theological framework that respects the Biblical narrative.