Catholic Public Domain Version
Genesis 1:31
“And God saw everything that he had made. And they were very good. And it became evening and morning, the sixth day.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Genesis 1:31.
Plain-language explanation
God carefully “looked over” all that He had created and affirmed that it was excellent—“very good.” After this affirmation comes the rhythm of time: evening and morning, marking the sixth day.
Catholic context
Many Catholics see this verse as a clear sign of God’s goodness and intention in creation. The phrase “very good” echoes the goodness of the Creator and can be read as preparing the reader for creation’s overall order and harmony, which culminates in God’s rest.
Historical background
In the Genesis creation account, the days are structured with a repeated pattern (“evening and morning”), emphasizing order rather than chaos. This sixth-day affirmation comes right before the seventh day, which sets up the theme of rest.
Reflection
It’s striking that God’s “inspection” of creation is not hesitant or regretful—everything is affirmed as truly good. What might change in our hearts if we paused to recognize goodness in God’s work, and gratitude in our daily life?
Practical takeaway
Today, try one concrete act of gratitude for the created world (e.g., notice the beauty of something you usually overlook, or thank God in a short prayer before a meal for daily bread and life).
Prayer
God of goodness, thank You for every part of creation that is “very good.” Help me see Your hand with gratitude, and teach me to live in trust, order, and peace. Amen.