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Genesis 1:10 - Divine naming defines creation's essence

Genesis 1:10 - בראשית 1:10

Hebrew Text

וַיִּקְרָא אֱלֹהִים לַיַּבָּשָׁה אֶרֶץ וּלְמִקְוֵה הַמַּיִם קָרָא יַמִּים וַיַּרְא אֱלֹהִים כִּי־טוֹב׃

English Translation

And God called the dry land Earth

Transliteration

Vayikra Elohim layabasha erets ulmikveh hamayim kara yamim vayar Elohim ki-tov.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים <small>׀</small> לַיַּבָּשָׁה֙ אֶ֔רֶץ וּלְמִקְוֵ֥ה הַמַּ֖יִם קָרָ֣א יַמִּ֑ים וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים כִּי־טֽוֹב׃
וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים ׀ לַיַּבָּשָׁה֙ אֶ֔רֶץ וּלְמִקְוֵ֥ה הַמַּ֖יִם קָרָ֣א יַמִּ֑ים וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים כִּי־טֽוֹב׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereshit 1:10) explains that the term "אֶרֶץ" (Earth) refers specifically to the dry land that emerged from the waters, as opposed to the seas. He emphasizes that this naming by Hashem signifies its designated purpose—dry land for human habitation and vegetation, while the seas were designated for aquatic life.

Rambam's Philosophical Perspective

In Moreh Nevuchim (2:30), Rambam discusses how the naming of the Earth reflects Divine wisdom in creation. The distinction between land and sea demonstrates Hashem's intentional design, where each element serves a unique role in maintaining the balance of the natural world.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 5:7) elaborates that the naming of the Earth was not merely functional but also symbolic. The term "אֶרֶץ" is connected to the root "רָץ" (to run), alluding to the Earth's readiness to fulfill Hashem's will, just as a servant runs to do his master's bidding.

Talmudic Insight

The Talmud (Chullin 60b) notes that the phrase "וַיַּרְא אֱלֹהִים כִּי־טוֹב" ("And God saw that it was good") following the naming of the Earth teaches that the separation of land and water was inherently good, as it allowed for the flourishing of life in its respective domains.

Kabbalistic Dimension

The Zohar (1:16a) interprets the naming of the Earth as an act of tikkun (rectification), where Hashem established boundaries in creation. The dry land represents the revealed world (olam ha'gilui), while the seas symbolize hidden depths (olam ha'starim), reflecting the duality in Divine providence.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Chullin 60a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the creation of the world and the naming of the dry land as Earth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 1:10 mean when it says 'God called the dry land Earth'?
A: This verse describes the third day of Creation when God separated the waters from the dry land. According to Rashi, this naming shows God's authority over creation - just as a king establishes order in his kingdom by naming things. The term 'Earth' (אֶרֶץ) signifies the stable, habitable ground as opposed to the seas.
Q: Why does the verse say 'God saw that it was good'?
A: The phrase 'God saw that it was good' appears after each stage of creation to show Divine approval. The Midrash explains that this particular declaration refers to the earth's readiness to fulfill its purpose - to grow vegetation (which follows in the next verses) and ultimately sustain human life. Rambam teaches that this shows the perfection of God's creation.
Q: What is the significance of God naming things in Genesis 1:10?
A: In Jewish tradition, naming represents establishing something's essential nature and purpose. The Talmud (Chullin 60b) discusses how the naming of earth and seas in this verse defines their eternal characteristics. This teaches us that everything in creation has a specific role assigned by God.
Q: How does the separation of land and water in Genesis 1:10 apply to us today?
A: The Sages derive from this verse the principle of 'havdalah' (separation/distinction) as a fundamental concept in Judaism. Just as God separated elements in creation, we are commanded to make distinctions - such as between holy and mundane, Shabbat and weekdays. This teaches us to recognize and respect the unique purpose of all things.
Q: Why is the creation of dry land important in Genesis 1:10?
A: The emergence of dry land was essential for human habitation. Rashi notes that this prepared the world for Adam's creation. The Midrash Tanchuma explains that the earth's creation demonstrates God's kindness - first creating what humans would need (land) before creating humans themselves. This shows Divine foresight and care in creation.