Genesis 1:10

KJV

And God called the dry [land] Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that [it was] good.

KJV (with Strong's)

And God {H430} called {H7121} the dry {H3004} land Earth {H776}; and the gathering together {H4723} of the waters {H4325} called {H7121} he Seas {H3220}: and God {H430} saw {H7200} that it was good {H2896}.

Complete Jewish Bible

God called the dry land Earth, the gathering together of the water he called Seas, and God saw that it was good.

Berean Standard Bible

God called the dry land “earth,” and the gathering of waters He called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.

American Standard Version

And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 1:10 vividly portrays God's sovereign and deliberate acts of ordering creation, specifically His naming of the newly emerged dry ground as "Earth" and the gathered waters as "Seas." This divine nomenclature is more than mere identification; it is an authoritative declaration that establishes identity, purpose, and distinction within the nascent cosmos. The verse culminates with God's recurring affirmation, "it was good," signaling the perfection, functionality, and inherent moral uprightness of this foundational stage of His handiwork, fully prepared for the flourishing of life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 1:10 concludes the third day of creation, immediately following God's command in [Genesis 1:9](/genesis/1-9 "God's command for the waters to gather and dry land to appear") for the waters to recede and dry land to emerge. This act of separation builds upon the foundational divisions established on Day One, when God separated light from darkness ([Genesis 1:4](/genesis/1-4 "God saw the light, that it was good")), and Day Two, when He separated the waters above from the waters below by creating the expanse ([Genesis 1:6-8](/genesis/1-6-8 "The Creation of the Expanse")). With the dry land now distinct and visible, God proceeds to name these newly formed geographical features, solidifying their identity and purpose within His unfolding cosmic design. This sequence highlights God's methodical and purposeful creation, moving from general separation to specific definition and ordering.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East (ANE), the act of naming was intrinsically linked to authority, ownership, and the establishment of identity and purpose. To name something was to exercise dominion over it, to define its essence, and to assign its function. Unlike the chaotic, often violent, creation myths of surrounding cultures where gods struggled to bring order, the Genesis account presents a singular, sovereign God who effortlessly brings order out of formlessness and void through His spoken word and subsequent naming. His naming of "Earth" and "Seas" is not a reaction to existing entities but a definitive act that bestows identity and designates their roles within His perfectly designed cosmos, demonstrating His absolute control and unique power.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 1:10 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the creation narrative and the broader book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Order**, emphasizing God's absolute authority and His meticulous, purposeful design of the cosmos. His act of naming demonstrates His dominion over every aspect of creation, transforming undifferentiated chaos into distinct, functional realms. Another crucial theme is the **Inherent Goodness of Creation**, reiterated by God's declaration, "it was good." This recurring affirmation, first seen in [Genesis 1:4](/genesis/1-4 "God saw the light, that it was good"), establishes a foundational theological truth: God's creation is perfect, complete, and fully aligned with His holy character and wise intentions, setting the stage for the flourishing of life and ultimately for humanity's role within this perfectly ordered world, culminating in the declaration of "[very good](/genesis/1-31 "God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good")" at the climax of creation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Earth (Hebrew, _ʼerets'_):** From H776, this term signifies the dry ground or land, distinct from the waters. It denotes the firm, solid foundation of the world, emphasizing its stability and suitability for habitation and cultivation. In this context, God's naming of the dry land as "Earth" establishes its identity as the terrestrial realm, the specific domain for land-dwelling life.
* **Seas (Hebrew, _yâm'_):** From H3220, this word refers to a sea or large body of water, often associated with noisy surf. While the singular form is used in the Strong's data, the KJV's "Seas" reflects the Hebrew plural, emphasizing the multiplicity and vastness of the gathered waters. God's naming of these collective waters as "Seas" defines their distinct aquatic domain, setting them apart from the dry land and preparing them to host marine life.
* **good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** From H2896, this word is rich in meaning, encompassing beauty, completeness, fitness for purpose, and moral uprightness. When God declares His creation "good," it signifies that it perfectly fulfills His divine intention, is fully functional, and is without any flaw or defect. It is a divine stamp of approval, indicating that this stage of creation is exactly as He purposed it to be, ready for the next phases of His creative work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And God called the dry [land] Earth":** This clause describes God's authoritative act of naming the newly emerged terrestrial realm. Following His command for the waters to recede, the dry ground appeared. By calling it "Earth," God formally designates its identity and purpose, distinguishing it from the chaotic, undifferentiated waters. This is an act of sovereign dominion, establishing the firm foundation of the world.
* **"and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas":** Complementing the naming of the dry land, God also names the vast collections of water that have receded into their designated basins. The phrase "gathering together" (Hebrew: _miqveh_) highlights the deliberate collection of these waters. By calling them "Seas," God defines their aquatic nature and sets their boundaries, transforming a formless expanse of water into distinct, organized bodies ready to sustain marine life.
* **"and God saw that [it was] good":** This concluding phrase is a recurring divine affirmation throughout the creation account. It signifies God's complete satisfaction with His handiwork. The "goodness" here implies not only aesthetic beauty but also perfect functionality, completeness, and moral uprightness. It means that the separation of land and sea, and their subsequent naming, perfectly fulfilled God's divine intention and were fit for the purposes He had in mind for them.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 1:10 employs several significant literary devices that underscore its theological message. The most prominent is **Naming as an Act of Dominion**. God's act of naming the "dry land Earth" and the "gathering together of the waters Seas" is not merely descriptive; it is prescriptive. In ancient Near Eastern thought, naming was an exercise of sovereignty, establishing identity, purpose, and ownership. By naming, God asserts His absolute authority over creation, transforming undifferentiated elements into distinct, purposeful entities. This act contrasts sharply with chaotic creation myths, emphasizing God's effortless and authoritative control. Another device is **Repetition**, specifically the recurring phrase "and God saw that it was good." This refrain, appearing multiple times in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account"), functions as a divine seal of approval, emphasizing the inherent perfection, completeness, and moral uprightness of each stage of creation. It builds anticipation for the ultimate declaration of "very good" at the end of the creation week. Finally, the verse demonstrates **Divine Fiat**, where God's will and word are immediately effective. His "calling" (naming) brings order and definition into existence, highlighting the power and efficacy of His divine utterance in shaping the cosmos.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 1:10 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty and His meticulous ordering of creation. His deliberate acts of separating and naming the dry land and the waters demonstrate that the cosmos is not a product of chance or chaotic forces, but the intentional, authoritative work of a divine Architect who brings perfect order out of formlessness. This verse establishes that every aspect of creation has a divinely appointed identity and purpose, reflecting God's wisdom and design. The repeated declaration, "God saw that it was good," is a foundational theological truth, affirming the inherent goodness, perfection, and functionality of creation as it emerged from God's hand, setting the stage for the flourishing of life and providing a baseline for understanding the subsequent impact of sin.

* [Psalm 33:6-9](/psalm/33-6-9 "Psalm 33:6-9 - God's Creative Word and Power")
* [Proverbs 8:27-29](/proverbs/8-27-29 "Proverbs 8:27-29 - Wisdom Present at Creation")
* [Isaiah 45:18](/isaiah/45-18 "Isaiah 45:18 - God as Creator and Orderer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 1:10 calls us to a profound appreciation for the ordered beauty and deliberate design of our world. Recognizing that the distinct landmasses and vast oceans are not arbitrary formations but the intentional, good design of a sovereign Creator should inspire deep reverence for the natural environment. This understanding compels us towards responsible stewardship, acknowledging that every aspect of creation bears the indelible imprint of God's perfect hand and serves His eternal purposes. Furthermore, just as God brought order to the chaotic waters and formless land, this verse reminds us that He is actively at work bringing order into our own lives, transforming chaos into purpose, and shaping us according to His good design. It invites us to trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that His plans for us are always "good," purposeful, and ultimately lead to flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's act of naming in this verse inform your understanding of His sovereignty over all creation?**
* **In what ways does the declaration "God saw that it was good" challenge or affirm your view of the world around you?**
* **How might recognizing God's intentional ordering of the land and seas influence your approach to environmental stewardship?**
* **Considering God's work of bringing order out of chaos, how can you invite Him to bring order into areas of your own life that feel chaotic or undefined?**

### FAQ
**Why is God's act of naming the "Earth" and "Seas" significant?**

Answer: In ancient thought, naming was a powerful act of dominion, authority, and the establishment of identity and purpose. By naming, God asserts His absolute sovereignty over these newly formed realms, distinguishing them as distinct and functional parts of His ordered creation. It signifies His ownership and His assignment of their specific roles within His cosmic design, moving beyond mere observation to active definition.

**What does "God saw that it was good" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew word *ṭôwb* (H2896) conveys far more than just aesthetic beauty. It signifies completeness, perfect functionality, and inherent moral uprightness. It means that God's creation, at this stage, perfectly fulfilled His divine intention, was fit for its intended purpose, and was free from any flaw or defect. It was precisely as He willed it to be, setting the perfect stage for life to flourish and for the subsequent stages of creation.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of chaos in the ancient world?**

Answer: Many ancient Near Eastern creation myths depicted gods struggling against primeval chaotic forces or creating through violence. In stark contrast, Genesis 1:10 showcases the God of Israel effortlessly bringing order out of the "formless and void" ([Genesis 1:2](/genesis/1-2 "Genesis 1:2 - The Spirit of God hovering over the waters")) by His spoken word and sovereign naming. This demonstrates His unchallenged power and absolute control over all things, establishing a cosmos of order and purpose without any struggle or opposition.

**Does this verse imply God is still ordering creation today?**

Answer: While God's initial creative acts were complete, He continues to sustain and uphold His creation through His ongoing providence ([Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ upholding all things")). Furthermore, He is actively working to bring order out of the chaos of sin in human hearts and lives through redemption. Ultimately, He will establish a [new heavens and new earth](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Heavens and New Earth") where perfect order, righteousness, and goodness will reign eternally, fulfilling His ultimate creative and redemptive purposes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 1:10, while describing the physical ordering of the world, profoundly points to Christ as the ultimate agent of divine order, goodness, and new creation. It was through Him that [all things were made](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All things made through Christ"), and He is the one who sustains and upholds creation by the word of His power ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ upholding all things")). Just as God brought order to the formless earth and separated the land from the chaotic waters, Christ brings order to our chaotic lives, transforming spiritual barrenness into fertile ground for righteousness. He is the very embodiment of God's "goodness," the perfect Creator who, through His redemptive work, makes all things new ([Revelation 21:5](/revelation/21-5 "Revelation 21:5 - God making all things new")). In Christ, the disruptive effects of sin are overcome, and a new creation emerges, foreshadowing the eternal realm of perfect order and divine goodness where He will reign supreme.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 32:4

[He is] the Rock, his work [is] perfect: for all his ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right [is] he.

Psalms 104:31

¶ The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works.

Genesis 1:4

And God saw the light, that [it was] good: and God divided the light from the darkness.