1. Unity and Oneness of God
The number 1 is the foundational number in the Bible, symbolizing the unity and oneness of God. In Deuteronomy 6:4, it is declared, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” This verse, part of the Shema, is a central declaration in Jewish tradition, emphasizing that there is only one true God, undivided and sovereign over all creation. This idea of oneness reflects God’s unique and unmatched authority in the universe.
2. Primacy and Sovereignty
The number 1 also signifies primacy, the first and foremost position. It is associated with God’s sovereign rule over all things. In the creation narrative (Genesis 1), the number 1 is linked to the first day when God brought light into existence, separating it from darkness. This act of creation on the first day symbolizes God as the initiator of all things, the One who precedes everything and from whom all life originates.
3. Singularity of Purpose
The number 1 can also represent singularity of purpose and direction. Jesus emphasized the importance of having a single focus when He said in Matthew 6:22, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.” Here, “healthy” or “single” eyes symbolize a pure, undivided focus on God and His righteousness, leading to a life filled with spiritual light.
4. Beginning and New Beginnings
The number 1 is often associated with beginnings and new starts in the Bible. The first book of the Bible, Genesis, is the book of beginnings, describing the creation of the world, the start of humanity, and the initiation of God’s covenant relationship with mankind. Likewise, in the New Testament, the Gospel of John begins with “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1), emphasizing the role of Christ (the Word) in the creation and the beginning of the new covenant.
5. Unity in the Body of Christ
In the New Testament, the concept of oneness is extended to the Church, the body of Christ. Paul writes in Ephesians 4:4-6, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” This passage highlights the unity and interconnectedness of believers, who are united under one Lord and one God, forming a single, unified body in Christ.
6. The First Commandment
The number 1 is also reflected in the first of the Ten Commandments, which declares, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). This commandment underscores the exclusivity of worship that is due to God alone, affirming His singular position as the one true deity deserving of all honor and reverence.
7. The First Adam and the Last Adam
In biblical theology, Adam is referred to as the first man (1 Corinthians 15:45-49), representing humanity’s initial relationship with God, which was marred by sin. Christ is referred to as the “last Adam” or “second man,” signifying the start of a new humanity, redeemed and restored through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The number 1, in this context, represents both the original creation and the new creation in Christ.
In summary, the number 1 in the Bible symbolizes God’s ultimate unity, authority, and the beginning of all things. It emphasizes the importance of singular devotion to God, the primacy of His role in creation, and the unity of believers in Christ.