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how does understanding 'image of god' influence our responsibilities towards the earth and each other?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Genesis 1:26-28

26 And 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." 27 God created man in his own image. In God's image he created him; male and female he created them. 28 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, and 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, the first book of the Hebrew Bible. It describes the climax of creation, where humanity is brought into existence, distinct from other creatures, and given a unique role within the created world.

What does being made in the 'image of God' mean for how we live in and care for the world, and how does that influence our daily choices?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Psalm 8:4-8

    This psalm echoes humanity's exalted yet humble place in creation, reflecting on the 'dominion' given by God.

  • James 3:9-10

    This New Testament passage highlights the ethical implications of bearing God's image, specifically regarding how we speak about and treat other people.

  • Genesis 2:15

    This passage from the second creation account describes humanity's role in the Garden of Eden as 'to work it and to keep it,' adding nuance to the idea of dominion.

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