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what else do we know about the ancient near eastern creation stories that influenced or contrasted genesis?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Genesis 1:1-5

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was waste and void; and darkness was on the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw the light, that it was good. God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. There was evening and there was morning, one day.

This passage opens the book of Genesis, presenting a foundational account of how the world came to be. It sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, introducing God as the sole creator of all that exists.

What does this passage reveal about the nature of God's power and intent in creating the world?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Psalm 104:1-9

    This psalm offers a poetic retelling of creation, celebrating God's wisdom and power.

  • Proverbs 8:22-31

    Wisdom is depicted as present with God during creation, participating in the ordering of the world.

  • John 1:1-5

    This New Testament passage echoes Genesis 1, identifying Jesus (the Word) as active in creation.

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