This report uses a commentary by Rashi (https://www.sefaria.org/Rashi_on_Megillah.9a.12?lang=bi) on a Bavli Talmud passage to initiate an explanation that the first word בראשית of Genesis 1:1 is a divine name for the supreme creator such that בראשית would have created אלהים along with the heaven and the earth.
Rashi had written his commentary to prevent that conclusion because he assumed אלהים being created was inconsistent with Jewish theology. However, it appears aside from Genesis 1:1 the Tenach has no other text claiming אלהים was uncreated or self existent. Ancient or everlasting from ever he was but not uncreated.
The Hebrew words (קדם ,עד ,עולם ,מעולם) used by some interpreters/commentators for describing אלהים as eternal or without beginning are not sufficient since they are also used to describe non-eternal people, things, nations, and nature. Please see my full report titled "Rashi: Genesis 1:1 Says 'Explain Me' " on https://academia.edu/105587382
The report makes the claim that the exegesis methods of grammar, context, and history objectively substantiate that the word בראשית may be considered a divine name separate from אלהים. There is also a discussion group with Hebrew scholars where this report can be viewed at https://www.academia.edu/s/bc2604a5f0?source=link
I hope to hear your opinions.
Allen Donow
Rashi had written his commentary to prevent that conclusion because he assumed אלהים being created was inconsistent with Jewish theology. However, it appears aside from Genesis 1:1 the Tenach has no other text claiming אלהים was uncreated or self existent. Ancient or everlasting from ever he was but not uncreated.
The Hebrew words (קדם ,עד ,עולם ,מעולם) used by some interpreters/commentators for describing אלהים as eternal or without beginning are not sufficient since they are also used to describe non-eternal people, things, nations, and nature. Please see my full report titled "Rashi: Genesis 1:1 Says 'Explain Me' " on https://academia.edu/105587382
The report makes the claim that the exegesis methods of grammar, context, and history objectively substantiate that the word בראשית may be considered a divine name separate from אלהים. There is also a discussion group with Hebrew scholars where this report can be viewed at https://www.academia.edu/s/bc2604a5f0?source=link
I hope to hear your opinions.
Allen Donow