Genesis 1:24-30: Dominion Over Creation

Read: Genesis 1:24-30

What does it mean to rule? Across history, kings and conquerors have wielded authority in different ways, some with benevolence, others with brutality. The Genesis account presents a radical vision of dominion, not as oppression, but as stewardship, particularly in humanity’s relationship with animals. The creation of man follows the creation of animals on the sixth day, but the discussion about animals resurfaces when God speaks about order in creation. In other Ancient Near Eastern stories, humans are often depicted as servants of the gods, tasked with sustaining them through offerings. The Genesis account, however, positions humans as stewards with dominion over creation, and God provides plants and fruits as food. This contrasts with some ANE texts, where the consumption of meat is either implied or explicitly mentioned. This initial depiction of a harmonious, non-predatory relationship between humans and animals sets the Genesis account apart. Unlike some ANE beliefs that portray nature as chaotic or in need of control by divine or royal powers, Genesis presents a world where humans are caretakers of the earth and its creatures.

In the same way that the creation of the sun, moon, and stars demonstrates God’s supremacy over deified celestial bodies, his creation of animals highlights his authority over them as well, many of which were worshiped in Ancient Near Eastern cultures. For example, the god Anubis had the head of a jackal, the goddess Bastet was depicted as a cat or lioness, the Mesopotamian god Enlil was associated with the bull, and the goddess Ishtar was often depicted with lions. To reinforce this point, God makes animals subject to man, and ultimately, Adam names them in Chapter 2. Naming is an act of assigning purpose and meaning, much like how God named the heavens, earth, seas, day, and night. The narrative implicitly puts what other ANE cultures worshipped in a place subject to man.

This explicit hierarchy in creation implies an ordered relationship: God is supreme, man is subject to God, and animals are subject to man. By extension, just as God exercises care and dominion over the cosmos, men and women are entrusted with care and dominion over animals. This balance leads to two extremes that should be avoided. First, any ideology or movement that diminishes or negates human authority over animals contradicts the divine order established by God. This could include certain interpretations of animal rights that place animals on equal footing with humans or advocate for a complete hands-off approach to wildlife and nature. Second, while humans have dominion over animals, this does not grant license for cruelty, abuse, or exploitation. Instead, dominion comes with the responsibility to care for and protect animals, acknowledging them as part of God's creation. In practical terms, this balance can be seen in efforts toward sustainable and humane animal farming, wildlife conservation, and animal welfare laws. The goal is to find a middle ground where the well-being of animals is considered alongside the legitimate needs and uses humans have for them.

Lord, You have entrusted us with the care of Your creation.

Help me to rule with wisdom, stewardship, and compassion, honoring Your divine order