And God set them in the firmament of heaven to give light upon the earth,
After the earth was clothed with vegetation and fitted for living beings, the fourth day brought forth the sun, moon, and stars, bodies in which elementary light was concentrated so its influence could be sufficiently modified and regulated for all life to exist and thrive. They were appointed to divide the day from night, to serve as signs and seasons, and to regulate the periods of time for all earthly purposes.
AI summary
Commenting on Genesis 1:14-19
The atmosphere being purified, the sun, moon, and stars appeared for the first time in all their glory in the cloudless sky, though to our eye they seem to be in the firmament when they are really at vast distances from it.
AI summary
Commenting on Genesis 1:14-19
God placed these lights at exact distances, had the sun been nearer we would burn, further we would freeze. The repetition of their purpose guards against the ancient folly of worshipping them as divine; they are creatures, servants under God, and to adore them is to serve the creature beside the Creator.
AI summary