When Did God Create Light According to the Bible?

Most people read the Bible in a diagonal, i.e., too quickly! However, taking the time to understand the nuances can provide deeper insights into the creation narrative. Let's explore the biblical account of God creating light in Genesis and its implications.

The Context and Conjunction

Genesis 2:3 mentions, 'Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.' The conjunction 'and' is critical here, as it highlights a distinction between the verbs 'to create' and 'to make.' In the original Hebrew, 'bara' means to conceive from nothing material and result in a non-material creation of a spiritual nature, such as light or any electromagnetic wave. 'Asa,' on the other hand, means to fabricate or transform using a material element that already exists.

God's Creation and Making Process

The text indicates that God always begins with creating before making. In engineering terms, 'create' corresponds to design and engineering, while 'make' refers to fabrication and assembly. Genesis 1:14 further states, 'Then God said, “Let there be lights…”' This implies the creation of lights on the fourth 'Day,' while the actual making of the sun, moon, and stars is described in Genesis 1:16. Here, God made two great lights: the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night. He also made the stars.

Days in the Bible: Not 24 Hours

The term 'Day' in Genesis 1 is not limited to a 24-hour period of time. This interpretation requires a deeper understanding of the biblical context. In Genesis 1 and 2, 'Day' refers to a larger, broader concept that includes the creation of day and night and the establishment of time. See proofs here:

Genesis 1:1–5: Here, God created the concept and reality of day and night and established time. Genesis 1:14–16: In these verses, God makes the stars, sun, and moon. Blessings, as they are everywhere, including in the heavens and the cosmos.

Modern Understanding of Light

It is important to consider modern scientific understanding alongside the biblical text. Light, in its scientific context, includes a spectrum of electromagnetic waves, such as radio, microwave, gamma, and X-rays. The heavens, as described in the Bible, would also be full of cosmic waves and visible light from stars. The sun, moon, and stars all contribute to the cosmic light we observe today.

For many, the biblical account represents a harmonious blend of faith and understanding. Whether approaching the text through a religious or scientific lens, the creation narrative remains a central part of the biblical narrative.

So, when did God create light? Based on the biblical account, it was during the first 'Day' when He established day and night, followed by the specific creation of stars, sun, and moon on the fourth 'Day.' This process is intricate and reflects the timelessness of God's engineering and creativeness.

If you have more questions about the Bible or seek further insights, consider delving into the original languages and cultural backgrounds of the texts. Blessings on your journey of discovery!