Understanding Genesis 1:6: Dividing the Waters

Genesis 1:6 states:

“And God said, ‘Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water.'”

This verse is part of the creation narrative in the Book of Genesis, which describes God’s systematic transformation of chaos into an ordered, habitable world. Let’s delve deeper into the meaning of this verse and its significance within the broader context of creation.

Context of Genesis 1:6

In the creation account, Genesis 1:6 recounts the events of the second day of creation. On this day, God is establishing the “expanse” (also referred to as the “firmament” or “sky”) to separate the waters.

Meaning of “Divide the Waters”

Waters Above and Below: The ancient Near Eastern cosmology, which influenced the biblical writers, held that there were bodies of water both above the sky and below on the earth. By creating an expanse, God separated these two bodies of water. The “waters above” likely refer to the source of rain, while the “waters below” encompass the seas, rivers, and underground waters. This division was essential for creating a structured and balanced environment.
Creation of the Sky: The “expanse” is essentially the sky or atmosphere. This expanse acts as a barrier between the waters on earth and the waters above. This separation is crucial for making the earth a habitable place, as it facilitates the water cycle and maintains the planet’s atmosphere.

Theological Significance

Order from Chaos: The act of separating the waters symbolizes God bringing order to the chaotic primordial waters. In the beginning, the earth was “formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep” (Genesis 1:2). By dividing the waters, God demonstrates His power and authority in organizing the universe, transforming chaos into a structured and functional world.
Life-Sustaining Environment: By creating the sky and separating the waters, God prepares the earth to support life. The sky will play a critical role in the water cycle, providing rain necessary for sustaining plants, animals, and humans. This separation underscores God’s intention to create an environment conducive to life.
Foundation for Further Creation: This separation sets the stage for the subsequent acts of creation. After establishing the expanse, God will gather the waters below to reveal dry land, which will become the habitat for various forms of life. The expanse also supports the celestial bodies, which will be created on the fourth day to govern time and provide light.

Practical Insights

Scientific Reflection: While the biblical text is not a scientific document, its depiction of separating waters to create an expanse can be seen as an ancient attempt to describe the formation of the earth’s atmosphere. The idea of waters above and below can be metaphorically related to our understanding of the hydrological cycle, where water evaporates, forms clouds (waters above), and returns as precipitation.
Spiritual Lessons: This verse teaches about God’s sovereignty and intentionality in creation. It reminds believers of God’s ability to bring order from chaos and His provision for sustaining life. The separation of waters highlights the importance of boundaries and structure in the natural world and in our lives.