Harmony or Dominion: What Was Meant for Humanity and Animals?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 9:2 contradicts Psalm 8:6-8, Isaiah 11:6-9, Hosea 2:18 and Romans 8:19-21. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In exploring the relationship between humans and animals, the Bible presents differing perspectives. Genesis 9:2 tells us of a world where God gave people control over animals and instilled fear within them. This might be seen as granting humans dominance, allowing us to use animals for our own needs like food or labor. It paints a picture of a hierarchical relationship where fear maintains order.
However, as we delve into other parts of the Bible, a different narrative emerges. Psalm 8:6-8 paints humanity as stewards who are given honor and glory, suggesting a more collaborative relationship. Here, animals are not merely subjects of human control but part of a harmonious existence where mutual respect prevails.
This harmony is further envisioned in Isaiah 11:6-9, where a peaceful kingdom is described—a place where animals and humans coexist without fear. The imagery is compelling: wolves and lambs, leopards and kids lying together, painting a picture of peace rather than dominion.
Hosea 2:18 also emphasizes a covenant of peace between humans and animals, contrasting the fear described in Genesis. It poses a vision where relationships are governed by peace and not authority or fear.
Moreover, Romans 8:19-21 speaks of a creation longing for liberation, awaiting unity with humans as God’s children. This suggests a shared destiny and partnership with all creatures, refuting the notion of a fearful dynamic.
These differences in scripture prompt a reflection: Are we meant to rule through fear, or is there a deeper call for stewardship through harmony? Like an orchestra, where each instrument plays its part, our relationship with animals could be seen as a symphony of co-existence, rather than a singular command. The Bible invites contemplation on whether human-animal relations should be steeped in fear or guided by respect and collaboration.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 9:2 | And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth [upon] the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. |
| 2. | Psalm 8:6-8 | Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all [things] under his feet: |
| 3. | Isaiah 11:6-9 | The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. |
| 4. | Hosea 2:18 | And in that day will I make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and [with] the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely. |
| 5. | Romans 8:19-21 | For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. |