The first word God spoke in the Bible, as recorded in the book of Genesis, was "Let."
The Divine Command: "Let There Be Light"
According to the biblical narrative, God's initial verbal act of creation, emerging from a state of formless and empty darkness, began with the powerful declaration: "Let there be light." This foundational statement, found in Genesis 1:3, marked the profound transformation of reality.
Context in Genesis 1
Before God's spoken word, the earth was described as tohu wa-bohu — "formless and empty," covered in darkness. It was at this juncture that God initiated the creative process through speech.
- Genesis 1:2 sets the scene: The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. The Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
- Genesis 1:3 records the pivotal moment: "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light."
The word "Let" (Hebrew: יְהִי, yehi) functions as a command or an invitation for something to come into being. It signifies the initiation of existence through divine will.
Significance of God's First Words
The command "Let there be light" is more than just a literal instruction; it symbolizes:
- Order from Chaos: God's words bring structure and illumination to a previously dark and unorganized universe.
- Creation through Speech: It highlights the immense power inherent in God's voice, where simply speaking brings things into existence.
- Foundation of Reality: This initial creative act lays the groundwork for all subsequent creation days, establishing light as a fundamental aspect of the cosmos.
Breakdown of Genesis 1:3
| Part of Verse | Meaning | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| And God said, | Introduction of divine speech | Establishes God as the speaker and creator |
| "Let" | The first word spoken | Command for existence, divine initiation |
| there be light, | The desired outcome | Creation of light, beginning of cosmic order |
| and there was light. | Immediate fulfillment | Demonstrates the power and effectiveness of God's word |
This powerful two-word phrase, "Let there be light," began the narrative of creation, pulling existence out of nothingness and establishing the very first element necessary for life.
