Matthew Poole and continuators on Genesis 2:21

21. And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam , and he slept, and he took one of his Ribs , and closed up the Flesh , in stead thereof .

That he, who was without sin, might feel no pain in the taking away of his Rib. And in this sleep some think Adam was in an extasie, wherein he saw what was done together with the reason and mystery of it.

Together with the Flesh upon it, v. 23. Or, one of his sides, for the Hebrew word signifieth a Side as well as a Rib, which may be taken Synecdochically, for a part of one of his sides, viz. a Rib and the Flesh upon it: Or, for one part out of each of his sides; as if two Ribs clothed with▪ Flesh were taken out of the man, because he saith, verse 23, This is Bone of my Bones, not, of my Bone. The Woman was taken out of this part, not out of the higher or lower parts, to shew that she is neither to be her husbands Mistress, to usurp authority over him, 1 Tim. 2. 12. Nor yet to be his slave, to be abused, despised, or trampled under his feet, but to be kindly treated, and used like a companion with moderation, respect, and affection. Qu. How could a Rib be taken from Adam, but it must be either superfluous in Adam, while it was in him, or defective afterwards, both which reflect upon the Creator? Answ. 1. It was no superfluity, but a conveniency, if Adam had at first one Rib extraordinary put into him for this purpose. 2. If Adam lost a Rib upon so glorious an occasion▪ it was but a scar or badge of honour, and no disparagement either to him, or to his Creator. 3. Either God created him a new Rib or hardned the Flesh to the Nature and use of a Rib, and so there was no defect in him.

Together with another Bone or Rib.

(i. e.) Of that Rib and Flesh which he took away from him, which was easie for God to do.