the heavens and the earth
This phrase encapsulates the entirety of creation, emphasizing the scope and magnitude of God's creative work. In Hebrew, "הַשָּׁמַיִם וְהָאָרֶץ" (hashamayim veha'aretz) refers to the sky, the celestial bodies, and the physical world. The phrase is a merism, a figure of speech that uses two contrasting parts to represent a whole. It underscores the comprehensive nature of God's creation, from the vast cosmos to the minutiae of the earth.

were completed
The Hebrew root for "completed" is "כָּלָה" (kalah), which means to finish, to bring to an end, or to fulfill. This word conveys the idea that God's creative work was not only finished but also perfected. It reflects the divine order and harmony established in creation, indicating that nothing was left undone or imperfect. The completion signifies God's sovereignty and the intentionality behind every aspect of creation.

in all their vast array
The phrase "in all their vast array" highlights the diversity and complexity of creation. The Hebrew word "צְבָאָם" (tzeva'am) can be translated as "hosts" or "array," often used to describe organized groups, such as armies or celestial bodies. This term suggests an ordered and purposeful arrangement, reflecting the meticulous care and wisdom of the Creator. It invites us to marvel at the intricate beauty and interdependence of all created things, from the stars in the sky to the ecosystems on earth.

THE SABBATH.

(1) Were finished.--The first three verses of this chapter form part of the previous narrative, and contain its Divine purpose. For the great object of this hymn of creation is to give the sanction of the Creator to the Sabbath. Hence the ascribing of rest to Him who wearies not, and hence also the description of the several stages of creation as days. Labour is, no doubt, ennobled by creation being described as work done by God; but the higher purpose of this Scripture was that for which appeal is made to it in the Fourth Commandment, namely, to ennoble man's weekly rest. Among the Accadians, Mr. Sayce says (Chald. Genesis. p. 89), the Sabbath was observed--so ancient is its institution--but it was connected with the sun, moon, and five planets, whence even now the days of the week take their titles, though the names of Scandinavian deities have been substituted in this country for some of their old Latin appellations. Here every idolatrous tendency is guarded against, and the Sabbath is the institution of the One Almighty God.

The host of them.--The word translated host does not refer to military arrangement, but to numbers gathered in crowds. This crowded throng of heaven sometimes means the angels, as in 1Kings 22:19; oftener the stars. Here it is the host both of heaven and earth, and signifies the multitudes of living creatures which people the land, and seas, and air.