Genesis 1:20 - Life swarms in waters, skies

Creation of Water Creatures and Birds

The verse (Bereishit 1:20) describes Hashem's command for the waters to bring forth living creatures and for birds to fly across the expanse of the sky. Rashi explains that the term "יִשְׁרְצוּ" (yishr'tzu) implies rapid and abundant proliferation, indicating that these creatures were created with the ability to multiply swiftly. The phrase "נֶפֶשׁ חַיָּה" (nefesh chayah) refers to creatures possessing a higher level of vitality, distinguishing them from plant life.

The Dual Nature of Birds

The Ramban notes an apparent contradiction in the verse: birds are commanded to fly "עַל־הָאָרֶץ" (above the earth) yet also "עַל־פְּנֵי רְקִיעַ הַשָּׁמָיִם" (across the expanse of the heavens). He resolves this by explaining that birds inhabit both domains—some dwell near the earth (like chickens), while others soar high in the sky (like eagles). This reflects the diversity in Hashem's creation.

Midrashic Insights

• Midrash Bereishit Rabbah (4:6) teaches that the creatures of the water were created from water itself, emphasizing that each element of creation was formed from its respective domain.
• Pirkei D'Rabbi Eliezer (5) states that the birds were created with the ability to fly immediately, demonstrating the instantaneous fulfillment of Hashem's word.

Kabbalistic Perspective

The Zohar (Bereishit 1:20a) interprets the phrase "שֶׁרֶץ נֶפֶשׁ חַיָּה" (sheretz nefesh chayah) as hinting at the spiritual vitality embedded within all living creatures. The waters symbolize the hidden depths of divine wisdom, from which life emerges in abundance.