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The Creation of the World: A Jewish Perspective

 (Bereshit / Genesis 1)

The Torah begins with the story of creation. This teaches us something very important: Judaism starts not with laws or rules, but with meaning — why the world exists and what our place in it is.

Creation Begins with Order

At the start of creation, the Torah describes the world as tohu va’vohu — chaotic and unformed. God brings order out of chaos, creating light, sky, land, plants, animals, and finally human beings.

This teaches a core Jewish idea: the world is not random. It has purpose and structure, and human beings are meant to help maintain that order.

Creation Through Words

God creates the world through speech: “And God said…” This shows the power of words. In Judaism, speech can create, heal, or destroy. Just as God uses words to create the world, we are responsible for how we use our own words.

Everything Is Declared Good

After each day of creation, the Torah says that God saw that it was good. When creation is complete, God calls it very good.

Judaism teaches that the physical world is not something to escape from, but something to care for and elevate. Nature, work, and daily life all matter.

Humans Are Created in God’s Image

Human beings are created b’tzelem Elohim — in the image of God. This means every person has dignity, value, and worth.

Because of this, Judaism teaches that harming another person is a serious offense, and caring for others is a sacred act.

Shabbat: The Purpose of Creation

Creation does not end with making things — it ends with Shabbat. God rests on the seventh day, blessing and sanctifying it.

Shabbat teaches that life is not only about productivity. Rest, reflection, gratitude, and holiness are essential parts of being human.

The World Is Good, but Unfinished

Judaism teaches that although the world is good, it is not complete. Humans are given the responsibility to partner with God in improving it — through justice, kindness, and mitzvot.

This idea is sometimes called tikkun olam — repairing the world.

The Message for Us

The story of creation teaches us:

l The world has purpose and meaning

l Every person has inherent dignity

l Words and actions matter

l Rest and holiness are essential

l We are partners in making the world better

Judaism begins with creation to remind us that faith starts with responsibility — to God, to one another, and to the world we live in.

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