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Book of Genesis - Chapter 1 - Verse 20

1:20
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Genesis, God is giving the command for the waters to bring forth an abundance of living creatures and birds that will fill the earth and the sky. This signifies the power and creativity of God, as He is able to bring life into existence with just His word. The word "abundantly" highlights the richness and variety of the creatures that were created by God, showcasing His generosity and attention to detail in His creations. The phrase "moving creature that hath life" refers to all sea creatures that are alive and active in the waters, while "fowl that may fly above the earth" refers to the birds that soar in the sky. This verse emphasizes the importance of all living creatures in God's creation and serves as a reminder of His authority over the natural world.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the theological interpretation focuses on God's creative power and sovereignty over all living creatures. The phrase "Let the waters bring forth abundantly" underscores the idea that God's command is the catalyst for the abundance and diversity of life in the waters. The term "moving creature that hath life" encompasses all living creatures in the water, emphasizing the vitality and variety of aquatic life created by God. The mention of "fowl that may fly above the earth" highlights God's intention for birds to inhabit the skies and soar above the earth, symbolizing freedom and divine provision. Additionally, the reference to the "firmament of heaven" suggests that these creatures are under God's watchful eye and care, as they inhabit the expanse of the sky. Overall, this verse showcases God's intricate design and purpose in creating the vast array of creatures that populate the waters and the skies, illustrating His divine creativity and authority as the ultimate Creator.

American Standard Version

And God said, Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
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