Genesis 1:13

KJV

And the evening and the morning were the third day.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the evening {H6153} and the morning {H1242} were the third {H7992} day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So there was evening, and there was morning, a third day.

Berean Standard Bible

And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.

American Standard Version

And there was evening and there was morning, a third day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 1:13 serves as the divine pronouncement of completion for the third day of creation, marking the successful emergence of dry land from the waters and the earth's abundant production of vegetation. This concise declaration underscores God's meticulous order, purposeful design, and the systematic progression of His creative work, laying essential foundations for all future life and revealing a Creator who brings each stage of His cosmic plan to perfect fruition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 1:13 functions as the concluding statement for the third day's creative acts, following the pattern established on the first two days. Prior to this verse, God's initial work involved separating light from darkness on [Day 1](/genesis/1-3-5 "Genesis 1:3-5 - Separation of Light and Darkness") and forming the expanse (firmament) to separate waters above from waters below on [Day 2](/genesis/1-6-8 "Genesis 1:6-8 - Creation of the Firmament"). The third day, uniquely, features two distinct creative commands: first, God commanded the waters under the heavens to be gathered into one place, revealing the dry land, which He named "Earth," and the gathered waters, which He named "Seas" ([Genesis 1:9-10](/genesis/1-9-10 "Genesis 1:9-10 - Separation of Land and Seas")). Immediately following this, He commanded the newly formed earth to bring forth an abundance of vegetation—grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit according to their kinds ([Genesis 1:11-12](/genesis/1-11-12 "Genesis 1:11-12 - Creation of Vegetation")). Thus, Genesis 1:13 provides the divine seal of approval and completion for these foundational acts, emphasizing the orderly progression and perfect consummation of this crucial phase within the broader narrative of God bringing cosmos out of chaos.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near Eastern worldview, from which Genesis emerges, often depicted creation as a chaotic struggle between deities or as a spontaneous, unguided process. In stark contrast, Genesis presents a singular, sovereign God who creates by divine fiat, bringing order and purpose through His word alone. The "evening and morning" formula reflects the ancient Israelite method of reckoning a day from sunset to sunset, a practice still observed in the Jewish calendar. This chronological framework, distinct from other creation myths, emphasizes a linear, purposeful, and historical unfolding of creation. The focus on the separation of land from water and the immediate flourishing of vegetation addresses fundamental concerns of ancient peoples regarding sustenance and habitable space, demonstrating God's provision and control over the very elements of existence. The meticulous detailing of "kinds" for vegetation also subtly counters polytheistic notions of nature spirits, affirming that all life originates from and is sustained by the one true God.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 1:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the chapter and the book. It reinforces the theme of **Divine Order and Design**, showcasing God's systematic and intentional approach to creation, where each step builds logically upon the last. The repeated phrase "and it was so" and the concluding declaration of the day's end highlight God's **Sovereignty and Omnipotence**, demonstrating that His word alone is sufficient to bring creation into being and to completion ([Psalm 33:6](/psalms/33-6 "Psalm 33:6 - Creation by God's Word")). Furthermore, the creation of dry land and vegetation on the third day introduces the profound theme of **Divine Provision**, as God meticulously prepares the earth with essential infrastructure and food sources before the creation of animal and human life. This foreshadows God's ongoing care for His creation, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, such as in [Psalm 145:15-16](/psalms/145-15-16 "Psalm 145:15-16 - God's Provision for All Living Things"). Finally, the declaration of the "third day" contributes to the broader biblical motif of the "third day" as a time of significant new beginnings and divine intervention, hinting at future redemptive acts.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **evening (Hebrew, _ʻereb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to mingle" or "to set," this word refers to the period of dusk or twilight, marking the transition from day to night. In the biblical reckoning of a day, the "evening" signified the commencement of a new day, as the ancient Israelites measured their days from sunset to sunset. Its inclusion here emphasizes the completion of a full cycle, from the beginning of the dark period to its end, signifying a divinely bounded and concluded period of creative activity.
* **morning (Hebrew, _bôqer'_):** This term, stemming from a root meaning "to cleave" or "to break forth," refers to the dawn, the breaking of day. It marks the end of the night and the beginning of the light period within a day. Paired with "evening," "morning" completes the full 24-hour cycle, underscoring the precise and measured progression of God's creative work. The consistent repetition of "evening and morning" throughout Genesis 1 reinforces the temporal reality of these creative days.
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** This versatile Hebrew word can denote various periods of time, but when accompanied by a numerical adjective (e.g., "first," "second," "third"), as it is consistently in Genesis 1, it almost invariably refers to a literal 24-hour period. In this context, _yôwm_ emphasizes the distinct, bounded nature of each creative phase, affirming a historical and chronological account of creation rather than a figurative or indefinite span of time. The declaration "the third day" thus signifies a specific, completed 24-hour period of God's work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the evening and the morning":** This recurring phrase serves as a divine chronological marker, signifying the completion of a full diurnal cycle. It aligns with the ancient Israelite method of reckoning a day from sunset to sunset, emphasizing that each creative "day" was a complete, bounded period, beginning with darkness and concluding with light. This repetition underscores God's methodical and orderly progression in His creative work, ensuring each stage is fully accomplished.
* **"were the third day":** This declaration formally concludes the third distinct period of creation. The use of the ordinal "third" in conjunction with "day" (Hebrew _yôwm_) strongly indicates a literal 24-hour period. On this specific day, God performed two monumental acts: the separation of dry land from the waters and the command for the earth to bring forth all forms of vegetation. This statement confirms that these significant foundational works were fully accomplished within this precise timeframe, setting the stage for the subsequent acts of creation.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 1:13, like the preceding and subsequent day-concluding statements, employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Formulaic Language**, specifically the recurring phrase "And the evening and the morning were the [Xth] day." This consistent formula provides a rhythmic structure to the creation narrative, emphasizing the orderly, sequential, and completed nature of each creative period. It acts as a divine punctuation mark, signaling the end of one phase and preparing the reader for the next. This repetition also serves as a form of **Emphasis**, reinforcing the reality and distinctness of each "day" of creation. Furthermore, the use of **Enumeration** (first, second, third day) provides a clear, progressive structure to the entire creation account, highlighting God's systematic and intentional design. The declaration implicitly contains **Divine Fiat**, as the mere statement of the day's completion affirms the absolute power and authority of God to bring His creative commands to fruition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 1:13 encapsulates God's inherent nature as a God of order, precision, and abundant provision. The meticulous sequencing of creation, from the separation of light and darkness to the formation of land and the flourishing of vegetation, reveals a divine Architect who plans with infinite wisdom and executes with perfect power. This verse, marking the completion of the third day, highlights God's purposeful preparation of the earth, ensuring that the necessary environment and sustenance were in place before the introduction of animal and human life. It speaks to a God who is not chaotic but methodical, not arbitrary but intentional, laying the very foundations for life to thrive, reflecting His benevolent character and unwavering commitment to His creation.

* [Psalm 19:1](/psalms/19-1 "Psalm 19:1 - The Heavens Declare God's Glory")
* [Isaiah 45:18](/isaiah/45-18 "Isaiah 45:18 - God as Creator and Sustainer")
* [Hebrews 11:3](/hebrews/11-3 "Hebrews 11:3 - Creation by God's Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 1:13 offers profound comfort and challenge for contemporary believers. It reminds us that our God is a God of perfect order and intentional design. In a world often characterized by chaos, uncertainty, and a sense of randomness, this verse anchors us in the truth that our existence and the very fabric of the universe are part of a divinely orchestrated plan. Just as God meticulously prepared the earth with dry land and abundant vegetation, providing the foundational infrastructure and sustenance for all life, so too does He providentially order and provide for our lives. This invites us to trust in His sovereign care, even when circumstances seem chaotic, knowing that He is faithfully working to bring His purposes to completion. It encourages us to align our lives with His established rhythms, to find rest in His completed works, and to gratefully acknowledge His unfailing provision in every season.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's orderly creation on the third day influence your view of His character and His plan for your own life?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's provision and His timing, just as He provided for the earth before life was placed upon it?**
* **Considering the "evening and morning" cycle, what does the concept of divine completion mean for your own sense of rest and accomplishment in your daily tasks?**

### FAQ
**Why does the Bible say "evening and morning" instead of "morning and evening"?**

Answer: This unique phrasing reflects the ancient Israelite practice of reckoning a day from sunset to sunset, a tradition deeply rooted in the biblical narrative itself (e.g., [Leviticus 23:32](/leviticus/23-32 "Leviticus 23:32 - Sabbath from Evening to Evening")). By starting with "evening," the text emphasizes that the day begins with darkness, followed by light, symbolizing God's bringing order out of chaos and light out of darkness, a theme prevalent throughout [the creation account](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account"). It signifies the completion of a full, bounded cycle from the beginning of the dark period to the end of the light period.

**Does "day" (*yom*) in Genesis 1 refer to a literal 24-hour period?**

Answer: The consistent use of the Hebrew word _yôwm_ ("day") in conjunction with numerical adjectives (first, second, third day, etc.) and the recurring phrase "evening and morning" strongly indicates a literal 24-hour day in Genesis 1. While _yôwm_ can sometimes refer to an indefinite period elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., "the day of the Lord"), its usage here, coupled with the precise chronological markers, supports a historical, chronological account of creation unfolding over six literal days. This interpretation is the most natural reading of the text and aligns with the narrative's emphasis on God's systematic and sequential work.

**Why were plants created on the third day, before the sun, moon, and stars on the fourth day?**

Answer: This sequence highlights God's absolute sovereignty and independence from His creation. It demonstrates that God is not reliant on the sun for light or for the sustenance of plant life. The light created on Day 1 was sufficient, and God’s direct command brought forth the vegetation, showing His immediate, independent power to initiate and sustain life. This order refutes any notion that the sun, moon, or stars are deities or essential for life's initial existence, firmly establishing God as the sole Creator and Sustainer of all things, whose power transcends the created order.

**What is the unique significance of the "third day" in biblical thought?**

Answer: The "third day" holds profound significance throughout Scripture, often marking pivotal moments of new beginnings, divine intervention, and resurrection. Beyond creation, it foreshadows events like the [resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day](/1_corinthians/15-4 "1 Corinthians 15:4 - Christ's Resurrection on the Third Day"), symbolizing victory over death and the inauguration of new life. Other instances include [Jonah's deliverance from the great fish on the third day](/jonah/1-17 "Jonah 1:17 - Jonah in the Fish for Three Days") and [Hosea's prophecy of restoration on the third day](/hosea/6-2 "Hosea 6:2 - Restoration on the Third Day"). The third day in Genesis 1 thus sets a pattern for God's powerful acts of bringing life, order, and new beginnings out of what was previously formless or void.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 1:13, like the entire creation account, profoundly points to Christ as the divine agent through whom all things were made and sustained. The meticulous order, life-giving power, and purposeful design displayed on the third day perfectly reflect the character and work of Jesus, for [in Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ as Creator of All Things"). Just as God brought forth dry land and vibrant, self-replicating life from the chaotic waters, so Christ, through His redemptive work, brings new life and spiritual order out of the chaos and barrenness of sin. The "third day" motif itself resonates deeply with the pivotal event of the [resurrection of Jesus on the third day](/luke/24-7 "Luke 24:7 - Jesus' Resurrection on the Third Day"), signifying His triumph over death and His power to bring forth a new creation. Through His death and resurrection, Christ inaugurates a new spiritual reality, where believers, once dead in trespasses, are made alive in Him, becoming [a new creation in Christ](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ"), echoing the life-giving power first displayed on creation's third day.

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.