You asked

how does this passage inform our choices about resource consumption and environmental impact?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

Genesis 1:26-28

“God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the sky, and over the livestock, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." God created man in his own image. In God’s image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them. God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."”

This passage is from the opening chapter of Genesis, part of the ancient Israelite creation narrative. It describes humanity's unique place in God's creation, made in God's image and given a specific role concerning the rest of the world.

What does it mean to exercise "dominion" and "subdue" the earth in a way that honors its created goodness and sustains future life?

Then — the setting

This text originates from ancient Israel, likely compiled or written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th-5th centuries BCE), though it reflects much older traditions. It addresses an audience grappling with their identity and relationship with God amidst imperial powers. The concept of 'dominion' (Hebrew: *radah*) and 'subdue' (Hebrew: *kabash*) in an Ancient Near Eastern context often referred to kingship and authoritative rule, sometimes implying control over hostile forces or resources. However, within the biblical framework, this rule is understood as delegated by God, implying responsibility and care rather than unchecked exploitation.

Across the Testaments

In the Old Testament, these verses establish humanity's unique role as God's representatives on earth, with both privilege and responsibility. While the New Testament doesn't explicitly reinterpret 'dominion,' it consistently emphasizes themes of sacrificial love, servanthood, and caring for the vulnerable. Jesus's life, characterized by humble service and healing, implicitly reframes how 'dominion' might be exercised—not as domination, but as redemptive stewardship and care. Pauline theology, particularly in Romans, suggests that creation itself awaits redemption, tying its destiny to humanity's, which reinforces the idea that human actions have cosmic implications for the created order.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Genesis 2:15
Describes humanity's role to 'work' and 'take care' of the Garden, offering a complementary perspective to 'dominion'.
Psalm 8:4-8
Echoes the theme of human dignity and authority over creation, praising God for humanity's position.
Romans 8:19-22
Connects the fate of creation to humanity, suggesting creation itself longs for liberation alongside humanity.

Ask your own follow-up