Detailed Explanation of Genesis 1:7 - Creation of the Expanse and Separation of Waters

Detailed Explanation of Genesis 1:7

Genesis 1:7 reads:

"So God made the expanse and separated the water under the expanse from the water above it. And it was so."

This verse continues the creation narrative in Genesis 1, specifically expanding on the events of Day 2, where God creates the expanse (also known as the firmament) to separate the waters above from the waters below. This is the second act in the formation of the sky or atmosphere, as God brings order to the chaos described in the earlier verses.

Let’s break this verse down to understand its meaning both in terms of the text itself and in terms of its broader theological implications.

1. The Context of Genesis 1:7:

In Genesis 1, we are presented with an ordered process of creation. God speaks, and the universe is shaped step by step. Genesis 1:6 introduces the creation of the expanse (often referred to as the "firmament" in older translations), but Genesis 1:7 expands on this by stating that God made the expanse and separated the waters.

• Verse 6 speaks of God’s command to create the expanse.
• Verse 7 speaks of the actual creation and division of the waters, showing how God physically brings about the separation.

Thus, Genesis 1:7 completes the process of separating the waters by establishing a boundary between the waters under the expanse (which are associated with the earthly seas) and the waters above the expanse (which are linked to the heavens or sky). This creates the sky or atmosphere in which the world will exist.

2. The Creation of the Expanse:

The word “expanse” (Hebrew: raqia) is used in Genesis 1:7 to describe the firmament or sky. The term is derived from the verb raqa, meaning "to spread out" or "to stamp down." This imagery suggests something that is stretched out or expanded, which aligns with the ancient understanding of the sky as a vault or dome that covers the earth.

In the ancient Near Eastern cosmology, this expanse was often viewed as a solid or semi-solid dome that separated the heavens (the waters above) from the earth. While this cosmology is not scientifically accurate by modern standards, it was the worldview held by the authors of Genesis and those to whom the text was originally addressed.

Thus, the expanse is seen as the boundary that divides the chaotic waters into two realms, creating space for life and order to emerge.

3. The Separation of the Waters:

The separation of the waters under and above the expanse is a significant act in the Genesis creation story. In verse 6, God commands that the expanse be made to separate the waters, but in verse 7, it is confirmed that God made the expanse and separated the waters beneath it from the waters above it.

• The waters below are traditionally associated with the seas or oceans on the earth, the primeval waters that cover the earth before the dry land is created.
• The waters above are thought to refer to the sky or the heavens, possibly linked to the idea of a canopy of water or vapor that was believed to exist above the earth, which would later provide rain.

The separation of these waters is not just a physical division but a theological one as well. In ancient cosmologies, waters were often seen as chaotic or destructive forces. By separating the waters, God imposes order on the chaos, transforming the primeval waters into a structured world.

This division signifies the creation of space for life—a fundamental concept in the biblical creation narrative. Without this separation, there would be no habitable environment for creatures to live. The waters of the earth would overwhelm and cover everything.

4. “And It Was So”:

The phrase "And it was so" is a recurring refrain in the Genesis creation narrative. After each act of creation, this phrase is used to affirm that God’s word accomplishes exactly what He intends. This statement signifies that God’s commands have been perfectly executed. His creation is complete and will function exactly as He has planned.

• This phrase emphasizes God’s sovereignty and efficiency in creation.
• It also suggests that the created world is good and purposeful, aligning with the subsequent phrase "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:10). There is an inherent affirmation that God’s actions are effective, and the creation that results is as intended.

5. Theological Implications of Genesis 1:7:

• God's Sovereignty and Order: Genesis 1:7 reinforces the idea that God is the ultimate authority and creator who establishes order over chaos. The division of the waters, creating space for dry land and life, is a reflection of God's power to impose structure on the universe. It also shows God as the One who brings distinction and boundaries to the created order.

• Separation as a Symbol: The idea of separation between the waters above and below the expanse also carries symbolic meaning. Water in ancient literature often symbolizes chaos or potential destruction. By separating the waters, God is not only creating a physical division but also symbolizing His ability to control and restrain chaos.

• The Sky as God's Work: The creation of the expanse or firmament sets the stage for the creation of life. It becomes the space in which all future living beings (such as birds and humans) will thrive. The sky also reflects God’s transcendence, being the boundary between earth and heaven, the physical and the spiritual realms.

• The Creation of a Habitable World: The verse emphasizes that God’s act of creation is for the purpose of preparing the earth for life. The separation of the waters and the creation of the firmament are part of God’s plan to make the earth a suitable environment for living creatures.

Summary:

Genesis 1:7 highlights God’s action in creating the expanse (the firmament) and separating the waters below from the waters above, completing the process initiated in verse 6. This marks the creation of the sky or atmosphere, a boundary that separates the chaotic waters and prepares the earth for future life. This act not only reflects God’s creative power but also establishes order, space, and boundaries in the created world, allowing life to flourish.

The phrase "And it was so" confirms that God’s word has the power to bring about His will, establishing the created order exactly as He intended. In the broader context, this verse demonstrates God's sovereignty, purpose, and ability to create a habitable world from chaos.

The above content is for reference purposes in theological interpretation and biblical understanding. For accurate guidance and counseling tailored to your personal faith interpretation or spiritual situation, please consult a spiritual leader or expert.