Animals are God’s Treasure, not Human Food. Zoology in Gn 1 and its Imperatives

Abstract

The study exposes the zoology of Genesis 1, analyzing the key
terms, phrases and statements. The study shows that Genesis 1
insists on the prominence of animals as living beings, guarantees
them a proper space in the ecosystem, and relates their purpose
and role to the inanimate nature, not to humans. Further, the study
reveals that the creation of humans in the image of God in Genesis
1 is a part of God’s care for animals. Humans are created in the
image of God to be good shepherds of God’s animals, to tend them
according to the divine laws and protect their rights and existence,
and not to dominate them freely. Besides, the study demonstrates
that the human task in Genesis 1 is realistic and constitutes a
moral imperative.