You asked

how might our current ecological crises challenge or deepen our understanding of human 'dominion'?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

Genesis 1:28

“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, over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."”

This verse is part of the creation narrative in Genesis, found in the first book of the Hebrew Bible. It describes God's blessing and instruction to humanity (male and female) immediately after their creation, outlining their role in the created world.

Considering the current ecological state of the earth, how might this ancient instruction to 'subdue' and have 'dominion' call us to a deeper, more responsible participation in the thriving of creation?

Then — the setting

The book of Genesis was likely compiled and written in the first millennium BCE, possibly during the Babylonian exile or post-exilic period, addressing an Israelite audience. The language of 'subdue' (כבש - kabash) and 'dominion' (רדה - radah) would have been understood in an agrarian context, implying cultivating the land, domesticating animals, and bringing order to the wild, not necessarily destructive exploitation. The world view was one where nature was powerful and often chaotic, and human effort was needed to bring forth sustenance and order from it. This text reflects a belief in humanity's unique position within creation, tasked by God with a specific role.

Across the Testaments

The Old Testament, particularly in Genesis 1, establishes a hierarchical relationship where humanity is given a distinct role over the rest of creation. This stewardship is often balanced by passages like the Sabbath laws (Leviticus 25) which call for rest for the land, animals, and even slaves, suggesting limits to human control and an inherent value in creation beyond human utility. The New Testament, while not directly re-addressing 'dominion' in the same terms, emphasizes reconciliation and restoration through Christ, extending to all creation (e.g., Colossians 1:15-20, Romans 8:19-22). This implies that human action in creation should align with God's redemptive purposes, moving towards healing and flourishing, rather than mere control or exploitation, reframing dominion as co-suffering stewardship.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Psalm 8:6-8
This psalm echoes the theme of human authority over creation, praising God for entrusting such a role to humanity.
Leviticus 25:1-7
This passage introduces the concept of the Sabbath for the land, suggesting limits to human exploitation and a call to let the earth rest.
Romans 8:19-22
Paul speaks of creation groaning, awaiting liberation, linking its destiny to the children of God and suggesting creation itself is impacted by human choices.

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