What is the difference between God creating and forming?

The distinction between God creating and forming is a nuanced and deeply significant aspect of understanding the theology of creation in the Bible. These terms, while sometimes used interchangeably in everyday language, hold distinct meanings and implications within the scriptural context. To grasp this difference, we must delve into the original Hebrew words used in the Old Testament, explore various biblical passages, and consider the theological ramifications of each term.

In the book of Genesis, we encounter two Hebrew verbs that are pivotal in discussing creation: "bara" (בָּרָא) and "yatsar" (יָצַר). "Bara" is typically translated as "create," and "yatsar" as "form." These verbs, though related, convey different aspects of God's creative work.

"Bara" – The Act of Creating

The verb "bara" appears in the very first verse of the Bible: "In the beginning, God created (bara) the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1, NIV). This term is used exclusively for divine activity, underscoring the unique and sovereign power of God. When God "creates," He brings something into existence out of nothing (ex nihilo). This concept is foundational to Christian theology, emphasizing God's omnipotence and the fact that all things have their origin in Him.

"Bara" is used in several key passages to describe God's creative acts. For instance, in Genesis 1:27, we read, "So God created (bara) mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created (bara) them; male and female he created (bara) them." Here, the repetition of "bara" highlights the special and intentional act of creating human beings, distinct from the rest of creation. This act of creation is not merely the shaping of pre-existing materials but the calling into existence of something entirely new and unique.

Theologically, "bara" signifies God's absolute authority and the transcendence of His creative power. It speaks to the mystery and wonder of creation, where God's word alone is sufficient to bring forth life, matter, and order. Psalm 33:6-9 captures this beautifully: "By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth... For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm."

"Yatsar" – The Act of Forming

In contrast, the verb "yatsar" conveys the idea of forming, fashioning, or molding, often from pre-existing materials. This term is used in Genesis 2:7: "Then the Lord God formed (yatsar) a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." Here, God's creative work involves shaping the dust of the ground into a human form and then imparting life through His breath.

"Yatsar" is also used in Isaiah 64:8, where the prophet declares, "Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." This imagery of God as the potter and humanity as the clay highlights the intimate and hands-on aspect of God's creative work. It suggests a process of careful design and craftsmanship, where God shapes and molds His creation according to His purpose and will.

Theologically, "yatsar" emphasizes God's immanence and His ongoing involvement in the world. It portrays God as a master artisan who lovingly and meticulously forms His creation. This concept is further illustrated in Psalm 139:13-14: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Here, the psalmist reflects on the personal and intricate nature of God's forming work in the creation of human life.

Interplay Between Creating and Forming

While "bara" and "yatsar" highlight different aspects of God's creative activity, they are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they complement each other, providing a fuller picture of the divine creative process. God creates (bara) by bringing forth new realities and then forms (yatsar) by shaping and organizing these realities into their intended purposes and functions.

This interplay is evident throughout the creation narrative in Genesis. For example, in Genesis 1:1-2, God creates the heavens and the earth (bara), and then the Spirit of God hovers over the waters, suggesting a preparatory phase before the forming (yatsar) of the ordered world described in the subsequent verses. As God speaks and commands, He brings forth light, separates the waters, and forms the land, vegetation, and living creatures. Each act of forming is rooted in the initial creative act, demonstrating God's comprehensive and sovereign control over the entire process.

Theologically, this interplay underscores the holistic nature of God's creative work. It affirms that God is both transcendent and immanent, both the originator of all things and the sustainer who continually shapes and guides His creation. This dual aspect of creation reflects the biblical understanding of God as both majestic and personal, powerful and caring.

Implications for Understanding Creation

Understanding the difference between creating and forming has several important implications for Christian theology and our worldview.

1. Affirmation of God's Sovereignty and Power: Recognizing that God creates (bara) out of nothing affirms His ultimate sovereignty and power over all existence. It reminds us that everything in the universe is contingent upon Him and that He alone is the source of life and being. This understanding fosters a sense of awe and reverence for God as the Creator.

2. Recognition of God's Intimate Involvement: The concept of God forming (yatsar) His creation highlights His intimate involvement and care for the world. It portrays God as a personal and relational being who is deeply invested in His creation. This understanding encourages us to see the world and our lives as the result of God's loving and purposeful design.

3. Holistic View of Creation: The interplay between creating and forming encourages a holistic view of creation that encompasses both the miraculous and the mundane. It affirms that God's creative work is not limited to grand, initial acts but extends to the ongoing shaping and sustaining of the world. This perspective invites us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of creation in all its forms.

4. Human Dignity and Purpose: The biblical portrayal of God creating and forming humanity underscores the unique dignity and purpose of human beings. Created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and formed with intentionality (Genesis 2:7), humans are endowed with inherent worth and a calling to reflect God's character and steward His creation. This understanding shapes our identity and mission as God's image-bearers.

5. Hope for Redemption and Renewal: The theological concepts of creating and forming also point to the hope of redemption and renewal. Just as God created and formed the world, He is also at work to redeem and restore it through Jesus Christ. The New Testament speaks of believers as "new creations" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) and envisions a future where God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1). This hope inspires us to live with faith and anticipation of God's ultimate renewal of all things.

In conclusion, the distinction between God creating and forming enriches our understanding of the biblical narrative and the nature of God. "Bara" and "yatsar" together reveal a God who is both transcendent and immanent, powerful and personal, the originator of all things and the loving artisan who shapes His creation with care and purpose. This theological insight invites us to worship God with greater awe and intimacy, to see the world and our lives as the result of His sovereign and loving hand, and to live with hope in His redemptive plan for creation.