Many English translations of Genesis state that God "created" or "made" humankind. Explain several shades of Hebrew meaning not communicated in English.
I am not sure we have any tutors who know Hebrew -- and without knowing Hebrew, you really don't want anyone to try to answer, do you?
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There are some (but certainly not all) links here that may help.
In Hebrew, the word used in Genesis to describe the creation of humankind is "bara" (בָּרָא). While English translations often render it as "created" or "made," there are indeed several shades of meaning that the Hebrew word conveys. To fully grasp these nuances, we need to explore the linguistic and cultural context.
1. Creation from nothing: One profound shade of meaning in "bara" is the idea of creation from nothingness. In Hebrew thought, this word carries the notion that God brought something into existence where there was previously nothing. This theological concept emphasizes God's divine power and sovereignty.
2. Divine initiative: Another aspect of "bara" is its association with divine initiative. It implies that God is the sole actor in this creation. It signifies an intentional and creative act that is unique to God alone. This sets God apart from any human or earthly agency, emphasizing the primacy of God's creative power.
3. Uniqueness and distinctiveness: "Bara" also conveys the aspect of uniqueness and distinctiveness in the act of creation. It implies that humankind is not just a mere extension of previous creation, but a special and separate creation. It highlights the exceptional nature of human beings and their role in the world.
It is worth noting that these shades of meaning in "bara" bring out the depth and richness of the Hebrew text, which may not always be fully conveyed in English translations. To truly appreciate these nuances, one would need to study the original Hebrew language and its associated cultural and theological context.