Dominion in the Bible: From Genesis to Christian Ethics

The concept of dominion in the Bible has profound implications for how humanity interacts with creation and exercises authority. Central to both Old and New Testament teachings, dominion touches on themes of power, responsibility, and ethical behavior.

Understanding biblical dominion is crucial as it shapes Christian perspectives on environmental stewardship, governance, and social justice. By examining its scriptural roots and theological interpretations, we can better grasp its relevance today.

Definition and Meaning

Dominion, as articulated in the Bible, refers to the authority and stewardship granted to humanity over the earth and its creatures. This concept is rooted in the Hebrew word “radah,” which implies ruling or having dominion, and the Greek word “kyrieuo,” which conveys a similar sense of authority. These terms are not merely about power but encompass a broader responsibility to govern wisely and justly.

The biblical notion of dominion is multifaceted, encompassing both the privilege of authority and the duty of care. It suggests a balance between exercising control and nurturing the environment. This dual aspect is evident in the way dominion is framed within the scriptures, where humanity is called to “subdue” the earth but also to “keep” and “tend” it. This indicates a relationship that is not exploitative but rather symbiotic, where the well-being of creation is intertwined with human actions.

In theological discourse, dominion is often discussed in the context of imago Dei, the belief that humans are created in the image of God. This concept implies that human authority over creation should mirror divine governance, characterized by justice, compassion, and sustainability. The imago Dei framework elevates the discussion of dominion from mere control to a reflection of divine stewardship, urging believers to emulate God’s care for the world.

Dominion in Genesis

The concept of dominion first emerges in the opening chapters of Genesis, where humanity’s relationship with creation is established. In Genesis 1:26-28, God declares, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” This passage underscores the unique position humans hold within the created order, tasked with overseeing and managing the earth’s resources.

The narrative further unfolds in Genesis 2, where a more detailed account of humanity’s role is provided. God forms Adam from the dust and places him in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). This directive to cultivate and maintain the garden emphasizes a proactive engagement with the environment. Rather than a passive existence, humans are called to actively participate in the flourishing of creation, underscoring the dynamic nature of their dominion.

An interesting aspect of dominion in Genesis is its inherent connection to naming. In Genesis 2:19-20, Adam names the animals, a symbolic act that represents understanding and relationship. By naming the creatures, Adam demonstrates a form of leadership that is based on knowledge and connection rather than mere control. This act of naming highlights the importance of relational stewardship, where authority is exercised with insight and respect for the intrinsic value of all living beings.

The Genesis account also presents a vision of harmony between humanity and nature. The initial creation narrative describes a world where humans, animals, and plants exist in a state of mutual benefit. There is no hint of exploitation or environmental degradation. Instead, the picture painted is one of balance and coexistence, where human activities contribute to the overall health and vitality of the earth. This idyllic vision serves as a blueprint for understanding dominion as a harmonious and life-giving relationship.

Dominion in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the concept of dominion evolves, intertwining with themes of servanthood and humility, significantly reshaping its interpretation. Jesus Christ’s teachings and actions provide a radical redefinition of authority, emphasizing that true dominion is expressed through service and self-sacrifice. For instance, in the Gospel of Mark (10:42-45), Jesus contrasts worldly power with divine leadership, stating, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” This perspective turns the conventional notion of dominion on its head, promoting a model where power is exercised through acts of kindness and compassion.

A profound example of this redefined dominion is found in the washing of the disciples’ feet, as recorded in John 13:1-17. Here, Jesus, the Master, performs a task typically reserved for the lowest servants, illustrating that leadership in God’s kingdom is marked by humility and service. This act is not just a lesson in personal humility but a powerful statement about the nature of authority in the Christian context. Jesus’ actions demonstrate that dominion involves lifting others up rather than asserting dominance over them.

The Apostle Paul further develops this theme in his letters, particularly in Philippians 2:5-8, where he urges believers to emulate Christ’s humility. Paul describes how Jesus, though in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his advantage. Instead, he “emptied himself” and took on the form of a servant. This kenotic (self-emptying) approach to dominion emphasizes the relinquishment of power and the embrace of vulnerability for the sake of others. Paul’s exhortation serves as a reminder that true authority is manifested in self-giving love and the pursuit of communal well-being.

In the Book of Revelation, dominion is portrayed in eschatological terms, where ultimate authority belongs to God and the Lamb. Revelation 5:13-14 depicts a cosmic vision of all creation acknowledging the sovereignty of God, culminating in a scene where the Lamb, symbolizing Christ, is worshiped by every creature. This apocalyptic imagery reinforces the idea that dominion, in its fullest sense, is aligned with divine justice and cosmic harmony. It points to a future where human and divine authority are perfectly integrated, reflecting a restored creation order.

Dominion and Stewardship

The relationship between dominion and stewardship is deeply intertwined, yet they offer distinct perspectives on human responsibility toward creation. While dominion emphasizes authority and governance, stewardship highlights care and management. This duality is significant as it frames the way believers interact with the world around them, urging a balance between control and nurturing.

Stewardship is often depicted through parables and teachings that emphasize accountability and wise management. For instance, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the importance of using one’s resources responsibly. The servants are entrusted with their master’s wealth, and their success is measured by how effectively they manage and multiply what they’ve been given. This story underscores the expectation that humans will actively engage in the stewardship of their environment, ensuring its growth and sustainability.

Modern Christian thought frequently connects stewardship with environmental ethics. The increasing awareness of climate change and ecological degradation has prompted many to revisit biblical teachings on stewardship. Organizations like the Evangelical Environmental Network advocate for a “creation care” approach, arguing that environmental stewardship is an expression of faith. This perspective calls for sustainable practices that honor the integrity of creation, aligning human activities with ecological balance.

Dominion in Christian Ethics

The principles of dominion and stewardship converge profoundly in Christian ethics, shaping moral behavior and guiding societal norms. Christian ethics, drawing from biblical teachings, emphasizes the responsible exercise of dominion, advocating for actions that promote justice, peace, and the well-being of all creation. This ethical framework insists that dominion must be aligned with love and respect for God’s creation.

Environmental Ethics

Christian environmental ethics has emerged as a significant field, driven by the growing ecological crisis. Theological reflections on dominion have led to a renewed focus on creation care, urging believers to adopt sustainable lifestyles. The idea of “eco-justice” combines ecological sustainability with social justice, advocating for policies that protect the vulnerable and preserve the environment. Initiatives like “Green Churches” and faith-based environmental movements exemplify this commitment, encouraging communities to reduce their carbon footprint and engage in conservation efforts.

Social Justice

Dominion in Christian ethics also extends to social justice, where the exercise of authority is measured by its impact on human dignity and equality. The teachings of Jesus, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, emphasize the moral imperative to care for the marginalized and oppressed. This ethical stance challenges systemic injustices and promotes a vision of society where resources are shared equitably. Christian organizations worldwide work towards alleviating poverty, advocating for human rights, and fostering inclusive communities, reflecting a dominion that champions justice and compassion.