The entire scope of creation, from the highest heavens to the lowest earth, rests under the absolute ownership of God. The formation of these realms represents the bringing of the universe into existence from nothing, driven purely by the will of the Creator [מאירי]. Although the heavens and the earth lack a mind of their own, their very existence and perfect order act as silent witnesses to their Maker. This grand design allows wise people to clearly recognize His guiding hand in the world [רד״ק]. There is a logical flow to this natural order, beginning in the heavenly systems and moving down to the earth, with both realms operating under God's watchful care [מלבי״ם]. Because both the heavens and the earth belong to Him, it naturally follows that everything existing between them was also established by His hand [אלשיך].
Within the physical globe, there is a clear distinction between the planet as a whole and the specific areas where life thrives. The earth encompasses the entire planet, regardless of whether it is suitable for life or completely barren. In contrast, the world consists strictly of the inhabited regions [אבן עזרא, רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. These livable spaces are filled with a vast array of creatures, bringing life to the environment through humans, animals, and birds [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
The act of establishing this world required overcoming powerful natural forces. By the strict laws of nature, the globe should have been entirely covered by water. However, God raised the dry land and set it firmly in place so that an inhabited world could exist [מלבי״ם]. This firm establishment also points to the creation of seven distinct inhabited zones across the globe, designed to remain permanently fixed [אבן עזרא]. Much like a strong foundation supports and sustains a large building, God prepared the inhabited world with every condition needed to support its residents. He provided food-bearing trees and lush vegetation, along with rivers and seas that serve as vital resources for travel and fishing [רד״ק].