“and it was good”

Posted on February 9, 2015 by Monica

In our Western creation story, Genesis, the first book of the Bible, God creates the world in six days. After each of the first five days, God assesses his handiwork and expresses his satisfaction with the phrase: “…and … it was good”.  After the sixth and final day: “… and behold, it was very good”.*

sunrise at cabinNot awesome, not fabulous or fantastic, not the best or superb, but “very good”. Is God the ultimate moderator of words, reviewing the exquisite beauty of creation with a qualified adjective? God’s approval appears to be infinite, but the expression is measured. What do we make of this?

Is something else being communicated here? Something about the state of the universe itself?

Many people assume that the universe is neither benign nor malicious, that its internal workings do not tend to, do not push us towards, either good or evil; that good and evil are what we humans make of them. I wonder.

Is God conveying an understanding that the universe just created is inherently good, that is, full of goodness? Are love, decency, compassion, and warmth the essence of what flows around us? Why do we expect the ultimate victor in war to be the decent side? Why should this be in a world where good and evil are evenly balanced?

Our own life experiences influence us in this determination, and each one must decide for himself. Yet I feel certain that this language of “goodness” contains more than a grammar lesson, an example of controlled and understated writing technique.

May we as humans live up to the expectations of the universe and make this world one of goodness.

*Genesis I:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31
This will be enough Bible study for the time.
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8 Responses to “and it was good”

  1. Monica says:
    February 20, 2015 at 8:08 pm

    Dear Bluebee, I appreciate and understand what you say. But consider that I am exploring language that has had more influence on Western culture and behavior than any other. I’m interested in whether this language is open to a different interpretation from the accepted or traditional reading(s). If it is so open, then possibly behavior based on the language can be subject to change.
    You are a linguist. I would think this would be right up your alley.
    In any case, my belief system can be found in my poetry. I suppose it could be categorized as a certainty of ultimate connectedness. We – rock, cloud, wolf, pesky humans – are star stuff!

  2. beeblu says:
    February 20, 2015 at 6:15 pm

    Since I do not believe in God as you talk of here, I cannot comment. 🙂

  3. Monica says:
    February 15, 2015 at 10:23 am

    I’m flying pretty high now – thanks, Sandy

  4. SandySays1 says:
    February 15, 2015 at 8:10 am

    Can always count on you for a moment of inspiration.

  6. The Emu says:
    February 13, 2015 at 10:28 pm

    An interesting concept to ponder on Monica, did God create the word GOOD, much like did God or man create the word BAD.
    I recall in my childhood religious days, that God created the world and knows everything.
    Later in life I questioned that statement, and was advised that God does know everything but give man the power of choice in life, okay, but even then he knows if a man is going to be a sinner or a saint, a Hitler or Mother Theresa.
    Christianity is too complex I think, either believe in Buddha or be an atheist may be the way to go.
    Wishing you a beautiful Valentines day Princess

  7. Monica says:
    February 11, 2015 at 8:30 am

    What a wonderful (or should I say “good”?) comment, especially coming from you! The picture is just as I took it – so the only thing to my credit was getting out the camera.

  8. segmation says:
    February 10, 2015 at 7:40 am

    Nice graphics and arts to go with this creation story. Love your writing techniques!

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