Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 1:18 mean when it says 'to divide the light from the darkness'?
A: According to Rashi, this verse refers to the creation of the sun and moon, which were given the role of separating day (light) from night (darkness). This division is fundamental to the order of time, as explained in Jewish tradition, allowing for the proper cycles of day and night essential for human life and mitzvot (commandments) tied to specific times.
Q: Why does the verse say 'God saw that it was good'?
A: The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah) teaches that when God declares something 'good,' it means it fulfills its intended purpose perfectly. Here, the separation of light and darkness was necessary for the functioning of the world, enabling the rhythms of work and rest, as well as the observance of mitzvot like Shabbat, which depend on the distinction between day and night.
Q: How does Genesis 1:18 apply to our lives today?
A: This verse reminds us of the importance of boundaries and order in creation. Just as God separated light from darkness, we are encouraged to make distinctions in our lives—between holy and mundane (kodesh and chol), between Shabbat and weekdays, and between right and wrong. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot) emphasizes that balance and structure are key to living a Torah-guided life.
Q: What is the significance of ruling over day and night in Genesis 1:18?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 60b) explains that the sun and moon were created to 'rule' by marking time for seasons, holidays, and daily mitzvot. For example, the times for prayer (Shacharit, Mincha, Maariv) are determined by daylight and nighttime. This 'ruling' reflects God’s design for humans to use time wisely for Torah study, work, and spiritual growth.
Q: Why is the separation of light and darkness important in Judaism?
A: The separation highlights a core Jewish value: discernment (havdalah). Just as God distinguished light from darkness, Jews make havdalah between Shabbat and the week, between pure and impure (tahor and tamei), and between Israel and other nations. This concept is central to Jewish identity, as seen in the Havdalah ceremony marking the end of Shabbat (Mishnah Berurah 296:1).
Rashi's Explanation of Dominion and Separation
Rashi (Bereshit 1:18) explains that the phrase "to rule over the day and over the night" refers to the celestial bodies—the sun, moon, and stars—which were created on the fourth day. Their role is to govern time by marking days, years, and seasons. The dominion of light and darkness is not arbitrary but serves the divine purpose of establishing order in creation.
Rambam on the Purpose of Separation
In Moreh Nevuchim (2:30), Rambam discusses the deeper significance of "to divide the light from the darkness." He explains that this separation is not merely physical but also metaphysical, representing the distinction between wisdom (light) and ignorance (darkness). The orderly structure of creation reflects Hashem’s wisdom in assigning each element its proper place and function.
Talmudic and Midrashic Insights
The Significance of "God Saw That It Was Good"
Rabbeinu Bachya (Bereshit 1:18) emphasizes that "God saw that it was good" indicates that this division was not arbitrary but purposeful. The harmony between opposing forces—light and darkness, day and night—demonstrates the perfection of Hashem’s creation. The Sforno adds that "good" here refers to the suitability of these divisions for sustaining life and enabling human beings to recognize divine providence.