The Hebrew Meaning of bara

The Meaning of bara

The Hebrew term *bara* (בָּרָא) is central to the Genesis account of creation, emphasizing God's unique act of bringing the cosmos into existence from nothing.

Unlike *bara*, the term *asah* (עָשָׂה) denotes a broader sense of making or doing, often used for crafting objects or performing actions (e.g., Exodus 31:17). Similarly, *banah* (בָּנָה) refers to building or constructing, as seen in Nehemiah 3:1 when rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls. These distinctions highlight *bara*’s exclusivity to God’s creative authority in Scripture.

In Genesis 1:1, *bara* underscores the theological claim that God alone originates all that exists, a foundation for understanding His sovereignty and transcendence. This unique usage sets the biblical narrative apart from other ancient creation myths.

bara in Genesis 1:1

In Genesis 1:1, the Hebrew word *bara* (בָּרָא) is employed to signify God’s unique act of creating the universe ex nihilo, a concept central to Judeo-Christian theology.

The verse 'In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth' (Genesis 1:1) uses *bara* to assert that God’s creation is distinct from human craftsmanship or natural processes. This term is exclusively applied to God in Scripture, underscoring His sovereignty and the absolute origin of all existence. Unlike *asah* (to make/do) or *banah* (to build), which appear in contexts involving human effort or material transformation, *bara* denotes a divine act without precedent or material cause. By using *bara*, the text establishes that creation emerges not from pre-existing chaos (as in some ancient myths) but through God’s will alone.

This usage positions *bara* as a theological marker of God’s authority, emphasizing that creation is an expression of His power and purpose. It frames the entire Genesis narrative within a framework where God’s word directly brings order and form to reality.

The exclusivity of *bara* to God in Genesis 1:1 reinforces the biblical claim that only He is the true Creator, a foundation for understanding His relationship with the cosmos and humanity. This concept of creation ex nihilo would later become a defining tenet of Christian doctrine, distinguishing it from other ancient Near Eastern cosmologies. As we explore further, the implications of *bara* will shed light on the nature of God’s sovereignty and the purpose of creation.

Other Biblical Uses of bara

Beyond Genesis 1:1, the Hebrew term *bara* appears in other Old Testament passages that deepen its theological significance.

In Isaiah 43:7, God declares He created Israel 'for My glory' (*l’kavod*), emphasizing that creation serves His redemptive purpose. Isaiah 45:18 states, 'For thus says the Lord, who created (*bara*) the heavens... I have made the earth and created (*asah*) mankind upon it,' contrasting *bara* with *asah* to affirm creation ex nihilo. These verses reinforce that only God originates life and order, underscoring His uniqueness and intentional design.

Such recurring uses of *bara* highlight a consistent biblical theme: creation is not accidental but reflects God’s sovereign will and glory. These passages set the stage for exploring how the concept of divine creation shapes broader theological reflections in Scripture.

Putting 'bara' into Practice

Understanding 'bara' shapes a believer's approach to stewardship, worship, and the purpose of human life by anchoring these practices in the reality of God's sovereign creative authority.

The Hebrew term 'bara' underscores that God alone creates ex nihilo (Genesis 1:1), calling believers to steward His resources with reverence (Psalm 24:1). Isaiah 43:7 affirms humanity's creation 'for My glory,' directing daily labor and devotion toward honoring Him. In Isaiah 45:18, the distinction between 'bara' and 'asah' reveals that creation is intentionally purposeful, inviting believers to discern God's design in their vocations and relationships. This awareness cultivates humility and responsibility, as stewards of a world crafted with divine intent, shaping how Christians approach labor, rest, and service.

Going Deeper

To deepen your understanding of *bara*, consider exploring Hebrew lexicons like Brown-Driver-Briggs or HALOT, and commentaries on Genesis such as those by Calvin or Matthew Henry.

These resources will illuminate the theological nuances of creation ex nihilo. Reflect on how your stewardship of God’s creation (Genesis 1:1; Isaiah 45:18) might align with His purpose for humanity.