Day 6 – Genesis 1: 24 – 31: Male & Female 

Introduction

In the realm of biblical scholarship, Genesis 1:24-31 describes the culminating day of creation where Elohim created male and female. This passage is highly significant in the creation narrative, marking the introduction of human life into creation. This passage holds profound theological import, introducing life. As such this is a pivotal text and we explore Genesis 1:24-31 through a lens that has been greatly informed by an in-depth study of the early parts of Genesis with Dr John Andrews, former principal of Mattersey that began in the summer of 2022 and my own studies informed by the work of Michael S. Heiser and Dwight Pryor, both scholars of blessed memory. It is fair to say that John Andrews and I had some significant differences in our reading of the text. This difference becomes significant at this point. However, we walked as brothers in Christ and appreciated, I hope, the insights of each other's approach. This study is an attempt to offer an integrated linguistic, historical, and theological perspective giving a nuanced understanding of these foundational biblical texts.

Verse 24-25: The Creation of Land Animals

“Then Elohim said, ‘Let the earth produce every type of living creature: every type of domestic animal, crawling animal, and wild animal.’ And so it was. Elohim made every type of wild animal, every type of domestic animal, and every type of creature that crawls on the ground. Elohim saw that they were good.”

The creation of land animals is marked by a divine command that brings forth a variety of creatures, each according to its kind. The phrase ‘let the earth bring forth’ suggests a process where the earth itself is instrumental in producing life, a concept that aligns with the broader ancient Near Eastern understanding of the earth as a life-giving entity under the sovereignty of a divine power.

What is important here is to engage with the Hebrew terms used here. The word for ‘living creatures’ (נֶפֶשׁ חַיָּה, nephesh chayyah) denotes more than mere biological life; it encompasses a living being with vitality and soul. This term sets the stage for understanding humanity's later description in verse 30. Alongside that, I would highlight the covenantal aspects embedded in this passage. The categorisation of animals into ‘cattle’, ‘creeping things’ and ‘beasts of the earth’ reflects an ordered creation designed for relationship with humanity. The recurring phrase ‘after their kind’ signifies the fixed order and purpose within creation, resonating with the Hebrew concept of ‘ma'aseh bereshit’ (the work of creation), which underscores God's orderly and purposeful act.

Verse 26: The Creation of Humanity

“Then Elohim said, ‘Let us make humans in our image, in our likeness. Let them rule the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the domestic animals all over the earth, and all the animals that crawl on the earth.’”

This verse introduces a pivotal moment in the creation narrative: the formation of humanity. The plural pronouns ‘Us’ and ‘Our’ have been the subject of much theological debate. Although many would disagree with me, my reading is that this language reflects a divine council scene, where YHWH consults His heavenly court—a concept prevalent in the ancient Near East and supported by passages like Psalm 82 and 1 Kings 22:19-23. This understanding aligns with the broader biblical portrayal of a heavenly host involved in God’s governance. In our deep study, John Andrews took a more traditional view that ‘Elohim’ simply describes God and is a linguistic device here.

In my reading, the terms ‘image’ (צֶלֶם, tselem) and ‘likeness’ (דְּמוּת, demuth) are central to this verse. Embodying both relational and functional aspects, being made in YHWH’s image signifies a unique relationship with the Creator, implying that humans are representatives of YHWH on earth. This ‘imago Dei’ confers dignity and purpose, calling humanity to mirror YHWH’s character and exercise stewardship over creation.

Verse 27: The Creation of Male and Female

“So Elohim created humans in his image. In the image of Elohim he created them. He created them male and female.”

The repetition and structure of this verse underscore the significance of humanity’s creation. Inherent within the text is a literary pattern, reflecting an ancient poetic form that highlights the intentionality and completeness of Elohim’s creative act. The creation of both male and female in YHWH’s image speaks to the equality and complementarity of the sexes. This is important in developing a Hebraic understanding of male and female roles. In the context of ancient Israel, the creation of both genders reflects the communal nature of humanity. The partnership between male and female is integral to fulfilling the mandate to rule and steward creation, emphasising mutual dependence and collaboration.

The partnership between male and female is integral to fulfilling the mandate to rule and steward creation, emphasising mutual dependence and collaboration.

Verse 28: The Blessing and Mandate

“Elohim blessed them and said, ‘Be fertile, increase in number, fill the earth, and be its master. Rule the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that crawl on the earth.’”

I find it remarkable that Elohim’s first recorded words to humanity are a blessing, conveying favour and purpose. The command to ‘be fruitful and multiply’ reflects a divine intention for growth and expansion. This is redolent in ancient Near Eastern context of royal imagery, where kings were often depicted as fruitful and prosperous, reflecting their divine favour and mandate to rule.

The terms ‘subdue’ (כָּבַשׁ, kabash) and ‘rule’ (רָדָה, radah) carry connotations of authority and stewardship. However, the text makes it clear that this mandate is not a licence for exploitation but a call to responsible governance. The Hebrew worldview sees humanity’s role as caretakers of YHWH’s creation, tasked with maintaining harmony and order in alignment with divine will.

The Hebrew worldview sees humanity’s role as caretakers of YHWH’s creation, tasked with maintaining harmony and order in alignment with divine will.

Verse 29-30: Provision for Life

“Elohim said, ‘I have given you every plant with seeds on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seeds. This will be your food. I have given all green plants as food to every land animal, every bird in the sky, and every animal that crawls on the earth—every living, breathing animal.’ And so it was.”

These verses highlight Elohim’s provision for all living creatures. The universal scope of this provision, reflecting Elohim’s benevolence and care for His creation, is dramatic with an all-encompassing perspective. The emphasis on plants and vegetation as food underscores a vision of harmonious coexistence, where life is sustained through the bounty of the earth. This language is rich in covenantal imagery. The language of ‘I have given’ reflects a divine gift, reinforcing the idea of creation as a testament to Elohim’s generosity and covenant faithfulness. The provision for both humanity and animals suggests an interconnectedness within creation, where the flourishing of one part contributes to the well-being of the whole.

Verse 31: The Conclusion of Creation

“And Elohim saw everything that he had made and that it was very good. There was evening, then morning—the sixth day.”

The declaration that creation is ‘very good’ (טוֹב מְאֹד, tov me'od) marks the completion and perfection of Elohim’s work. This affirmation is significant in the context of ancient creation myths, where the material world was often seen as flawed or corrupt. In contrast, the biblical narrative affirms the inherent goodness of creation, reflecting the character of a benevolent and wise Creator. It is also important to see the Sabbath connection implicit in this verse. The culmination of creation sets the stage for the seventh day, a day of rest and divine communion. The ‘very good’ assessment signifies a world in harmony, ready to enter into the Sabbath rest, which is both a literal cessation from labour and a theological symbol of ultimate peace and fulfilment in YHWH’s presence.

Conclusion

Genesis 1:24-31 presents a theologically rich account of the sixth day of creation, where land animals and humanity are brought into being. Through the application of the broader perspective, we gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Hebrew context, the divine council imagery, and the covenantal relationships inherent in the text. This passage not only highlights the unique role of humanity as bearers of Elohim's image but also underscores the interconnectedness and harmony intended within creation. As we reflect on these verses, we are invited to recognise our calling to steward Elohim’s creation responsibly, live in relationship with one another, and ultimately find our rest and fulfilment in the Creator.