In the original Hebrew, the opening of the Book of Genesis is ” ” (Bereshit bara Elohim), which translates to “In the beginning God created.” This phrase sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, introducing the act of creation and the Creator.
The initial words of Genesis hold immense theological significance. They establish God as the primordial actor, existing before all things and bringing the universe into being. This concept of creation ex nihilo (from nothing) forms a cornerstone of many religious and philosophical systems. Historically, these words have been subject to extensive interpretation and debate, shaping understandings of cosmology, humanity’s place in the world, and the nature of the divine.