Divine Breath of Life
Adam formed: A Study on Genesis 2:4-7

Introduction

In the realm of biblical scholarship, Genesis 2: 4-7 forms a pivotal point. The creation of Days 1 - 6 by ‘Elohim’, completed on Day 7 with Sabbath or Shabbat, gives way to YHWH’s forming of Adam. Bible scholars and academics have broadly taken one of two courses. The first has been to cast these verses as a poetic retelling of Genesis 1’s Day 6 without taking as much as a pause to account for the differences in context, language and setting. The second is to take the liberal, higher criticism-informed route which designates the whole of Genesis as a simple ‘cut and paste’ of other ancient Near Eastern creation stories. This latter approach is, to me, objectionable, as it does not even merit the alleged ‘cutters and pasters’ with any consideration of the need to create harmony between the differing versions. However, there is a third way which has been around for as long as both preceding schools of thought, but has garnered little airtime over the past 150 - 200 years. Yet, whichever way you look at this passage, it is obvious that this is a text of great significance.

In the exploration of this text, I am looking through a lens that has been shaped through an in-depth study of the early parts of Genesis with Dr John Andrews, former principal of Mattersey that began in the summer of 2022 together with my own studies informed by the work of Michael S. Heiser and Dwight Pryor, both scholars of blessed memory. It is fair to say that John Andrews and I had completely different readings of this text. This is not a bad thing: neither of us were there, and, as long as we respected each other’s perspective we could harvest insights to add to our understanding. This study is an attempt to offer an integrated linguistic, historical, and theological perspective giving a nuanced understanding of these foundational biblical verses.

Genesis 2:4-7 transitions from the cosmic perspective of creation to a more intimate and detailed account of humanity’s formation.

Genesis 2:4-7 transitions from the cosmic perspective of creation to a more intimate and detailed account of humanity’s formation. These verses offer profound insights into the nature of human beings, their relationship with God, and their place within creation. The intention of this study is to uncover layers of meaning that encompass ancient Near Eastern contexts, Hebraic thought, and deep theological reflections and in doing so giving even more glory to YHWH.

Genesis 2:4: The Generations of the Heavens and the Earth

“This is the account of heaven and earth when they were created, at the time when Yahweh Elohim made earth and heaven.”

This verse serves as a heading, marking the beginning of a new section in the creation narrative. The Hebrew word for ‘account’ (תּוֹלְדוֹת, toledot) can be translated as ‘generations’ or ‘descendants’, suggesting a genealogy of events. The use of toledot indicates a shift from a broad cosmic overview to a focused narrative about specific acts of creation, particularly humanity. The second shift is indicated by the introduction of the covenantally significant name ‘LORD God’ (יהוה אֱלֹהִים, YHWH Elohim). This compound name combines the covenantal name YHWH, which denotes God’s personal relationship with His people, whilst ‘Elohim’ signifies the creative power of Genesis 1. The use of YHWH (or Yahweh) Elohim here sets the stage for a more intimate, purposeful and relational act of ‘creation’ by a singular deity, where covenantal love and creative power are intertwined.

Genesis 2:5-6: The Untilled Earth and the Mist

“Wild bushes and plants were not on the earth yet because YHWH Elohim hadn’t sent rain on the earth. Also, there was no one to farm the land. Instead, underground water would come up from the earth and water the entire surface of the ground.”

These verses describe the state of the earth before the creation of humanity. The absence of shrubs and plants, along with the lack of rain and human cultivation, paints a picture of an untamed and uninhabited world. Whilst this description aligns with other ancient Near Eastern creation accounts, where the earth is initially portrayed as a barren and chaotic place awaiting divine intervention, it breaks with the order set down in Genesis 1, where vegetation was created on Day 3. Now it is true that there is significance in the role of humanity in bringing order and cultivation to the earth. However, as Judaism teaches, there are two elements of creation that require further work after Elohim’s creation: mankind and the earth’s vegetation. The absence of rain and human labour suggests that creation is incomplete without humanity’s participation. This sets the stage for understanding the cooperative relationship between YHWH and humans, where humanity is called to partner with YHWH in the stewardship and cultivation of creation.

The mist that rises from the earth can readily be seen as a symbol of YHWH’s immanent presence, nurturing and preparing the ground for the creation of life.

Alongside this I would suggest that there is a spiritual perspective on the imagery of mist and water. Abraham Joshua Heschel often spoke of the divine presence as a sustaining and life-giving force. The mist that rises from the earth can readily be seen as a symbol of YHWH’s immanent presence, nurturing and preparing the ground for the creation of life. This imagery invites us to see YHWH’s ongoing involvement in creation, where His presence permeates and sustains the natural world.

Genesis 2:7: The Formation of Humanity

“Then YHWH Elohim formed the man from the dust of the earth and blew the breath of life into his nostrils. The man became a living being.”

This verse is rich with theological and anthropological significance. The formation of man (אָדָם, adam) from the dust (עָפָר, afar) of the ground (אֲדָמָה, adamah) highlights humanity’s intimate connection to the earth. As previously mentioned, there are distinct ancient Near Eastern parallels, with other creation myths also describing humans being formed from the earth. However, the biblical account uniquely emphasises the personal involvement of YHWH Elohim in this process. The act of forming (יָצַר, yatsar) suggests an image of a potter shaping clay, indicating intentionality and care. This imagery portrays YHWH as an artist, intricately crafting humanity with purpose and love. The breath of life (נִשְׁמַת חַיִּים, nishmat chayyim) breathed into man’s nostrils signifies a direct impartation of life from YHWH, highlighting the personal and intimate nature of this act. This divine breath is the source of human dignity and spirituality. The breath of life represents more than biological vitality; it signifies the infusion of divine spirit, endowing humanity with the capacity for relationship with YHWH, moral discernment, and spiritual awareness. This act of breathing life into man underscores the sanctity and inherent worth of every human being. It is the foundation of the reality that each one of us today still carries a spark of divinity within us.

Theological Reflections

Humanity’s Unique Role in Creation

Genesis 2:4-7 highlights humanity’s unique role in creation. Being formed from the dust connects humans to the earth, while the divine breath elevates Adam’s line above other creatures. This duality reflects Adam’s role as mediator between the material and spiritual realms. Adam was called to steward the earth, bringing order and cultivation, while also maintaining a relationship with the Creator. Inherent within this is a thought that the dust signifies humility and dependence on YHWH, while the divine breath signifies a covenantal relationship. This relationship involves mutual responsibility: YHWH sustains and blesses Adam, whilst calling Adam to live in obedience and faithfulness. The relational aspect of this covenant is foundational to understanding humanity’s purpose and destiny. The divine breath endows Adam with a sense of awe and reverence for life. This awareness calls for a moral and ethical response, the recognition of a responsibility to care for creation and each other. This thought ties back to the start of Genesis 2, highlighting Sabbath as a time to reconnect with this divine purpose, reminding us of our calling to live in harmony with YHWH’s will.

Adam was called to steward the earth, bringing order and cultivation, while also maintaining a relationship with the Creator.

The Breath of Life and Human Dignity

In the light of subsequent events, the breath of life in Genesis 2:7 carries profound implications for human dignity. This divine act distinguishes humans from other creatures. The Hebrew word for breath (נִשְׁמָת, nishmat) is related to spirit (רוּחַ, ruach), suggesting that humans possess a unique spiritual dimension. This divine breath endows humans with the capacity for intellect, emotion, and spiritual communion. As mentioned before, the act of breathing life into man signifies a personal and intimate relationship between YHWH and humanity. This relationship is foundational to understanding human identity and worth. Being made in the image of ‘Elohim’ (imago Dei) confers dignity and value, calling humans to reflect YHWH’s character and purposes in their lives. The divine breath also signifies far more than biological life; it represents the sanctity and sacredness of human existence. There is a need to recognise the image of YHWH in every person, which should lead to a profound respect for human life. This respect in turn should call for justice, compassion, and ethical responsibility in our interactions with others.

Adam's Relationship with the Earth

The formation of humanity from the dust of the ground highlights the interconnectedness between humans and the earth. Adam is depicted as being created from the earth and positioned as the overseer, even governor, of creation on this earth, responsible for its cultivation and stewardship. This responsibility or oversight of this earth in turn creates a covenantal relationship between humanity and the earth. The Hebrew word for ground (אֲדָמָה, adamah) is related to the word for human (אָדָם, adam), highlighting their intrinsic connection. This relationship is covenantal, where humans are called to steward the earth in partnership with YHWH. The earth is not merely a resource to be exploited, but a sacred trust to be cared for and nurtured. The result of these insights brings us to the realisation that we need to see the world through the lens of reverence and wonder. Where John Andrews and I parted on our reading of the forming of Adam, we reconverged on this requirement for a sense of wonder and awe for what YHWH has done. The earth is a gift from YHWH, and our relationship with it should be marked by gratitude and respect. Once again looping back to the beginning of Genesis 2, the Sabbath is to be seen as a time of rest and reflection, inviting us to reconnect with the natural world and recognise its intrinsic value. This perspective calls for an ethical and sustainable approach to environmental stewardship, where we honour the Creator by caring for His creation.

Practical Implications for Today

Rediscovering Our Identity and Purpose

Genesis 2:4-7 invites us to rediscover our identity and purpose as human beings. We are made in the image of God; we are YHWH’s ‘image bearers’. Our very formation can almost be seen as akin to the seal of an emperor given to his loyal servants. Our very being and presence denotes YHWH. Whenever I reflect on this, I recall the Jewish Midrash that tells of angels, upon seeing a human approaching, say to one another ‘make way, make way, the image of God approaches’. It should mean something, and we can begin by reclaiming our understanding of being made in the image of God. This identity calls us to reflect God's character in our lives, living in a way that honours Him and brings blessing to others. Additionally, I believe we can embrace our covenantal relationship with YHWH. This involves living in obedience and faithfulness, recognising that our lives are a reflection of YHWH’s purposes. It also calls us to cultivate a sense of community and relationship, where we support and encourage one another in our walk with God. In this spirit we can cultivate a sense of reverence and awe for life, recognising the divine breath that sustains us. This awareness calls for a commitment to justice, compassion, and ethical responsibility in our interactions with others and with creation.

In this spirit we can cultivate a sense of reverence and awe for life, recognising the divine breath that sustains us.

Embracing the Sabbath as a Time of Renewal

The themes of Genesis 2:4-7 are directly linked to the Sabbath that opens Genesis 2. Sabbath is positioned as a time to reconnect with YHWH’s purposes and rhythms. It is a weekly reminder of our identity as YHWH’s image-bearers and our calling to steward creation. It is a time to gather with family and friends, to worship, and to celebrate the goodness of YHWH’s creation. The Sabbath fosters relationships and builds community, reflecting the relational nature of the covenant. It is a time to create a ‘sanctuary in time’ by setting aside regular moments for reflection, prayer, and renewal. In this way, the Sabbath becomes a time to reconnect with our divine purpose and to find rest and peace in YHWH’s presence.

Cultivating a Relationship with Creation

Genesis 2:4-7 calls us to cultivate a relationship with creation marked by respect and stewardship. It is a call to interconnectedness: to a covenantal relationship that involves caring for the environment and advocating for policies that promote sustainability and justice; and to the cultivation of a sense of reverence and wonder for the natural world. This involves taking time to appreciate the beauty and diversity of creation, and recognising its intrinsic value. The Sabbath, as a time of rest and reflection, invites us to reconnect with the natural world and to find renewal in its rhythms.

Conclusion

Genesis 2:4-7 offers profound insights into the nature of humanity, our relationship with YHWH, and our place within creation. Through this integrated lens we gain a multi-faceted understanding that encompasses ancient Near Eastern contexts, Hebraic thought, and deep theological reflections.

These verses call us to rediscover our identity and purpose as YHWH’s image-bearers, to embrace our covenantal relationship with YHWH, and to cultivate a relationship with creation marked by respect and stewardship. They invite us to recognise the divine breath that sustains us, and to find rest and renewal in the rhythms of the Sabbath.

As we reflect on these verses, we are reminded of the sanctity and inherent worth of every human being, the interconnectedness of all creation, and the profound mystery and wonder of YHWH’s creative work. May we live in a way that honours the Creator, reflects His character, and brings blessing to His creation.