The concept of dominion over animals is rooted in the biblical narrative of creation, where God grants humanity authority over the animal kingdom. This theme is primarily introduced in the Book of Genesis and is foundational to understanding the relationship between humans and animals from a biblical perspective.

Creation Mandate

The idea of dominion is first articulated in Genesis 1:26-28. In these verses, God declares His intention to create mankind in His own image and likeness, and He bestows upon them the responsibility to rule over the earth and its creatures. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"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.' So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth.'" (Genesis 1:26-28)

This passage establishes the divine mandate for humans to exercise stewardship over the earth, which includes the animal kingdom. The use of the term "dominion" implies a form of governance that reflects God's own sovereign rule—characterized by care, responsibility, and benevolence.

Stewardship and Responsibility

The dominion granted to humanity is not a license for exploitation or abuse but rather a call to stewardship. This is further emphasized in Genesis 2:15, where God places Adam in the Garden of Eden to "work it and take care of it." The BSB translates this as:

"Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it." (Genesis 2:15)

This verse underscores the responsibility humans have to maintain and preserve the natural world, including its animal inhabitants. The biblical model of dominion is thus one of service and guardianship, reflecting God's own care for His creation.

Post-Fall Implications

The fall of man, as described in Genesis 3, introduces sin into the world, affecting all of creation. The harmonious relationship between humans and animals is disrupted, leading to a more complex dynamic. Despite this, the mandate of dominion remains, albeit in a world now marred by sin and its consequences.

Noahic Covenant

Following the flood, God reaffirms humanity's dominion over animals in the covenant with Noah. In Genesis 9:1-3, God blesses Noah and his sons, reiterating the command to be fruitful and multiply. He also grants them permission to use animals for food, marking a significant development in the human-animal relationship:

"And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. The fear and dread of you will fall on every living creature on the earth, every bird of the air, every creature that crawls on the ground, and all the fish of the sea. They are delivered into your hand. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you; just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you all things.'" (Genesis 9:1-3)

This passage highlights a shift in the nature of dominion, where animals now fear humans, and the consumption of animal flesh is permitted, reflecting a post-fall reality.

Ethical Considerations

Throughout Scripture, there are numerous exhortations to treat animals with kindness and respect. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty." This verse emphasizes the moral obligation to care for animals, aligning with the broader biblical principle of stewardship.

Eschatological Hope

The prophetic literature and New Testament writings offer glimpses of a future restoration of creation, where harmony between humans and animals is fully realized. Isaiah 11:6-9 envisions a time when predatory behavior ceases, and peace prevails among all creatures. This eschatological hope reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for creation.

In summary, the biblical concept of dominion over animals is a multifaceted doctrine that encompasses authority, stewardship, and ethical responsibility. It calls for a reflection of God's character in the way humans interact with the animal kingdom, anticipating a future restoration of all creation.