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Genesis 1:22 - Divine blessing for abundant life

Genesis 1:22 - בראשית 1:22

Hebrew Text

וַיְבָרֶךְ אֹתָם אֱלֹהִים לֵאמֹר פְּרוּ וּרְבוּ וּמִלְאוּ אֶת־הַמַּיִם בַּיַּמִּים וְהָעוֹף יִרֶב בָּאָרֶץ׃

English Translation

And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply in the earth.

Transliteration

Vayvarekh otam Elohim lemor p'ru ur'vu umil'u et-hamayim bayamim veha'of yirev ba'aretz.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ אֹתָ֛ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵאמֹ֑ר פְּר֣וּ וּרְב֗וּ וּמִלְא֤וּ אֶת־הַמַּ֙יִם֙ בַּיַּמִּ֔ים וְהָע֖וֹף יִ֥רֶב בָּאָֽרֶץ׃
וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ אֹתָ֛ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵאמֹ֑ר פְּר֣וּ וּרְב֗וּ וּמִלְא֤וּ אֶת־הַמַּ֙יִם֙ בַּיַּמִּ֔ים וְהָע֖וֹף יִ֥רֶב בָּאָֽרֶץ׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Blessing of Procreation

The verse (Bereishit 1:22) records Hashem's blessing to the creatures of the sea and the birds to "be fruitful and multiply." This is the first instance of the mitzvah of peru urevu (procreation) in the Torah. Rashi explains that this blessing was necessary because all creatures are subject to death, and without reproduction, species would cease to exist. The Sforno adds that this blessing endowed these creatures with the natural ability to reproduce abundantly.

Distinct Blessings for Different Creatures

The verse contains two distinct commands:

  • "Fill the waters in the seas" - Ramban notes that aquatic creatures received a specific blessing to fill their habitat, indicating that each species has its designated space in Creation.
  • "Let birds multiply in the earth" - The Kli Yakar points out that birds, while capable of flight, are commanded to multiply specifically on land, teaching that their primary existence is tied to the earth despite their aerial abilities.

The Foundation for Human Procreation

While this verse addresses animals, the Gemara (Yevamot 65b) derives from here that humans are also commanded in procreation. The Rambam (Hilchot Ishut 15:2) rules that this mitzvah is primarily incumbent upon men, based on the similar language used in the blessing to Adam (Bereishit 1:28). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 8:12) explains that all creatures were given this blessing, but humans have the additional responsibility to partner with Hashem in continuing Creation.

The Concept of "Brachah" (Blessing)

The Ohr HaChaim highlights that a divine blessing is not merely a wish but an actual endowment of capacity. When Hashem blesses the creatures with fertility, He implants within their nature the ability to fulfill this command. The Malbim explains that this blessing created the natural laws of reproduction that govern all species until today.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yevamot 65b
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the commandment to be fruitful and multiply, which is a central theme in Jewish law regarding marriage and procreation.
📖 Chullin 139b
The verse is mentioned in a discussion about the blessings given to creatures and the nature of these blessings in the context of kosher and non-kosher animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'Be fruitful and multiply' mean in Genesis 1:22?
A: The phrase 'Be fruitful and multiply' (פְּרוּ וּרְבוּ) is a divine commandment given to the creatures of the sea and birds to reproduce and fill their respective habitats. According to Rashi, this blessing ensures the continuity of these species, showing Hashem's care for all creation.
Q: Why is this blessing important in the Torah?
A: This blessing highlights the importance of reproduction and the perpetuation of life, a theme central to Creation. The Rambam explains that this commandment reflects the natural order established by Hashem, where all creatures have a role in maintaining ecological balance.
Q: Does this verse apply to humans as well?
A: While this specific verse addresses sea creatures and birds, a similar commandment is given to humans in Genesis 1:28 ('Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth'). The Talmud (Yevamot 65b) discusses this as the first mitzvah given to mankind, emphasizing its importance in Jewish tradition.
Q: What can we learn from God blessing the animals?
A: This teaches us that Hashem values all life, not just human life. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) explains that every creature has a purpose in Hashem's plan, and this blessing shows His kindness in sustaining all beings.
Q: How does this verse relate to environmental responsibility today?
A: Since Hashem commanded creatures to thrive and fill their habitats, we learn the importance of preserving ecosystems. Jewish tradition, as discussed in the Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat), teaches bal tashchit (do not destroy), urging us to protect wildlife and natural resources.