Beginning
Category
God's Nature & Attributes
Biblical Definition
The commencement or first point of God's creative work and, by implication, the declaration that all things have their origin in Him rather than in chance, matter, or rival powers.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: בְּרֵאשִׁית
Transliteration
bĕrēʾšît
Literal meaning
in the beginning, at first
Key Scripture(s)
Genesis 1:1; Genesis 2:4; Proverbs 8:22-23; John 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:10
Theological Significance
The Bible opens by locating the universe, humanity, and history within God's sovereign initiative. 'Beginning' therefore does more than mark a starting point. It establishes God as Creator and frames the whole biblical story as one that proceeds from His purposeful act.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
This term is not merely a timestamp for curiosity about origins. In Scripture it functions theologically, grounding reality in God's authorship and authority.
Practical Application
Meditating on this word teaches believers to see life, identity, and history as accountable to the God who made all things.