The answer is: Dust of the ground

Gen 2:7

In the tale of creation, we find a fascinating origin story for humanity—crafted not from glorious metals or shining gems, but from good old dust. In Genesis 2:7, it states that God formed man from the dust of the ground, highlighting a humbling aspect of human nature. Many scholars view this as a reminder of our earthly ties and a call to gracious stewardship of the planet. Interestingly, the word for 'dust' in Hebrew (אֲפָר, 'afar') evokes images not just of soil but also of graves, symbolizing our mortality—a profound perspective on life that offers both weight and lightness.

As our creator slicks together these atoms and elements, it parallels how other cultures also emphasize the connection between humanity and the Earth. For instance, ancient Mesopotamian myths present humankind as fashioned from clay—a nod to a shared theme across various ancient narratives that resonates through time.

Moreover, the simple composition of man's beginning can also rally reflections on unity among all living beings. Consider this: it posits that everyone—from the most esteemed to the least suspected bits of debris—is intrinsically connected through their origin, enveloping us all in an elaborate tapestry called life. The biblical echo of being “made in the image of God” instigates thoughtful inquiries into who we are and how we relate to not just each other, but the world at large. In embracing this narrative of humanity, let’s seek ways to care for both creation and each other.