The Bible provides numerous insights into the care for animals, reflecting God's concern for all His creation. From the very beginning, animals are an integral part of God's creation, and humanity is given the responsibility to steward them with care and compassion.

Creation and Stewardship

In Genesis 1:26, God grants humanity dominion over the animals: "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.'" This dominion is not a license for exploitation but a call to stewardship, reflecting God's own care for His creation.

The Covenant with Noah

After the flood, God establishes a covenant with Noah, his descendants, and every living creature (Genesis 9:9-10). This covenant underscores the value God places on animal life and His commitment to their preservation alongside humanity.

Sabbath Rest for Animals

The Mosaic Law includes specific provisions for the welfare of animals. In Exodus 20:10, the Sabbath commandment extends rest to animals: "But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God; on that day you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates." This commandment highlights the importance of rest and care for animals, recognizing their need for recuperation.

Humane Treatment

The Law further mandates humane treatment of animals. Deuteronomy 25:4 instructs, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain." This law ensures that working animals are allowed to eat while they labor, reflecting a principle of fairness and kindness.

Proverbs and Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Bible also speaks to the care of animals. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty." This proverb emphasizes that righteousness is demonstrated through the compassionate treatment of animals, contrasting it with the cruelty of the wicked.

Jesus and the Value of Animals

In the New Testament, Jesus acknowledges the value of animals while teaching about God's care for humanity. In Matthew 6:26, He says, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" While emphasizing human value, Jesus also affirms God's provision for animals.

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on the care for animals is one of stewardship, compassion, and respect. Throughout Scripture, God’s concern for animals is evident, and His people are called to reflect His character in their treatment of all living creatures.