What Did God Create on the Sixth Day?
The sixth day of creation, as described in Genesis 1:24–31, marks the climax of God’s creative work. It is the day when land animals and human beings were created—two categories of life that would fill and rule the earth. This day stands out as the most detailed and significant because it introduces humanity, who is made in God’s image and given authority over all creation.
1. Creation of Land Animals
The sixth day begins with God creating every type of creature that lives on land. Genesis divides them into three main categories:
a. Livestock (Domestic Animals)
These are animals that would live close to human beings—cows, sheep, goats, camels, donkeys, and others. They play roles in companionship, agriculture, food, and daily life.
b. Creeping Things (Small Creatures on the Ground)
This includes reptiles, insects, rodents, and all small creatures that move close to the ground. Their creation shows God’s attention to even the smallest forms of life.
c. Wild Animals (Beasts of the Earth)
These are untamed animals such as lions, bears, elephants, deer, and many more. They inhabit forests, mountains, and open lands.
Each type was created “according to its kind”, meaning each species was made with its own distinct nature and characteristics that continue through reproduction.
2. Creation of Human Beings – The Crown of Creation
The creation of humans is described in greater detail than any other part of creation. It is the moment that completes the Earth’s design.
a. Created in the Image and Likeness of God
Genesis 1:26 says:
“Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.”
This means humans are given unique qualities:
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Intelligence and reasoning
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Moral understanding
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Emotional depth
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Ability to create and make decisions
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Capacity for relationships
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Spiritual awareness
No other creature shares this special status.
b. Male and Female
God created both male and female, showing equality in dignity and value. Together, they reflect God’s image more completely than either one alone.
Humans were also blessed and given a purpose:
c. The Mandate to Rule and Steward Creation
God blessed them and said:
“Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish, birds, and every living creature.”
This role includes:
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Caring for the Earth
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Using resources wisely
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Maintaining balance in creation
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Leading with responsibility, not domination
Humanity was designed to be God’s representatives on Earth.
3. Food Provided for Humans and Animals
On the sixth day, God also declared food sources:
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Plants and fruits were given to humans for nourishment.
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Green plants were assigned as food for animals.
This shows God’s provision and care for all living things from the beginning.
4. God Saw That It Was “Very Good”
At the end of the sixth day, God surveyed everything He had created. Unlike previous days when He said creation was “good,” this time He said it was “very good.”
This phrase shows:
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The harmony and perfection of creation
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The importance of humanity in God’s plan
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The completion and beauty of God’s creative work
The sixth day ends with creation fully prepared, ordered, and ready for life to flourish.
Conclusion
On the sixth day, God completed His creation by forming:
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All land animals—domestic, wild, and creeping creatures
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Human beings, made in His image and given authority over the earth
This day represents the height of God’s creative power and intention. With the creation of humans, the earth was not only filled with life but also given caretakers who could understand, manage, and appreciate God’s world. The sixth day sets the stage for God’s rest on the seventh day, marking the completion of creation.