Genesis 1:4

And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֧רְא

H7200

saw

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֱלֹהִ֔ים

H430

And 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)

הָא֖וֹר

H216

the light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

כִּי

H3588

that

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ט֑וֹב

H2896

it was good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

וַיַּבְדֵּ֣ל

H914

divided

to divide (in variation senses literally or figuratively, separate, distinguish, differ, select, etc.)

אֱלֹהִ֔ים

H430

And 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

וּבֵ֥ין

H996

from

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

#10

הָא֖וֹר

H216

the light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

#11

וּבֵ֥ין

H996

from

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

#12

הַחֹֽשֶׁךְ׃

H2822

the darkness

the dark; hence (literally) darkness; figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness

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 literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does the creation and providence theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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