Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 1:15 mean when it says the lights are 'for lights in the firmament of heaven'?
A: According to Rashi, this verse refers to the sun, moon, and stars created on the fourth day. Their purpose is to illuminate the earth and serve as signs for seasons, days, and years (as mentioned in Genesis 1:14). The 'firmament of heaven' refers to the sky where these celestial bodies are placed.
Q: Why did Hashem create the sun and moon according to Genesis 1:15?
A: The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:30) explains that the celestial lights serve practical purposes: to provide light for the world, to mark time (for Shabbat, holidays, and years), and to demonstrate Hashem's wisdom in creation. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) also teaches that they were created to testify to Hashem's greatness.
Q: How do we see the lesson of Genesis 1:15 applied in Judaism today?
A: This verse establishes the basis for the Jewish calendar, which is lunar-solar. The moon's cycles determine our months (Rosh Chodesh) and holidays (Pesach, Sukkot, etc.), while the sun marks the seasonal years. The Talmud (Berachot 59b) also teaches that seeing the sun or moon renewing their cycles requires a blessing acknowledging Hashem's ongoing creation.
Q: What is the significance of the phrase 'and it was so' in Genesis 1:15?
A: Rashi explains that this phrase appears throughout Creation to show that everything came into existence exactly as Hashem commanded, without any change or resistance. The Sforno adds that this demonstrates the perfection of Hashem's will - when He decrees something, it happens immediately and completely.
Q: Why does the Torah call the sun and moon 'lights' instead of using their names?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 60b) explains that originally both great lights (sun and moon) were equal, but the moon was diminished later (hence 'small light' for moon). Calling them 'lights' in this verse emphasizes their function rather than their identity. The Kli Yakar adds that this teaches us to focus on purpose (illuminating the world) rather than titles or status.
The Purpose of the Heavenly Lights
The verse (Bereishit 1:15) states that the celestial bodies were created to serve as "lights in the firmament of heaven to give light upon the earth." Rashi explains that the primary function of the sun, moon, and stars is to illuminate the earth, emphasizing their utilitarian purpose for humanity. This aligns with the Torah's perspective that creation serves a divine plan centered around human existence and mitzvot.
The Dual Nature of the Lights
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 6:1) notes that the word "מאורות" (lights) is spelled defectively—without the letter "ו"—to hint at a diminished state. This alludes to the idea that the moon was originally created equal to the sun but was later diminished (as discussed in Chulin 60b). Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:30) further explains that the lights were designed with precise astronomical functions, reflecting Hashem's wisdom in the natural order.
Spiritual Illumination
The Zohar (Bereishit 47b) interprets these lights as symbols of Torah and mitzvot, which provide spiritual illumination to the world. Just as physical light enables navigation, Torah wisdom guides moral and ethical conduct. The Seforno adds that the lights also serve as signs for appointed times (מועדים), enabling the Jewish people to sanctify months and festivals, as commanded in the Torah.