Genesis 1:27

Authorized King James Version

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בָּרָ֥א

H1254

created

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

So God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָֽאָדָם֙

H120

man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

בְּצֶ֥לֶם

H6754

in his own image

a phantom, i.e., (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol

בְּצֶ֥לֶם

H6754

in his own image

a phantom, i.e., (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

So God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

בָּרָ֥א

H1254

created

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

אֹת֑וֹ

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

זָכָ֥ר

H2145

he him male

properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

#11

וּנְקֵבָ֖ה

H5347

and female

female (from the sexual form)

#12

בָּרָ֥א

H1254

created

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

#13

אֹתָֽם׃

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The divine name or title here functions within foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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