The relationship between humans and animals is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting both the dominion and stewardship roles assigned to humanity. This relationship is established from the very beginning of the biblical narrative and is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the interconnectedness of all creation under God's sovereign design.

Creation and Dominion

In the Genesis account, God creates animals and humans, assigning a unique role to humanity. Genesis 1:26-28 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.'"

This passage establishes the concept of dominion, where humans are given authority over animals. However, this dominion is not a license for exploitation but rather a call to stewardship, reflecting God's care and order in creation.

The Fall and Its Impact

The harmonious relationship between humans and animals is disrupted by the Fall. Genesis 3 describes the entrance of sin into the world, which affects all of creation. The ground is cursed, and the relationship between humans and animals becomes strained. Romans 8:20-22 further elaborates on this, stating, "For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time."

Covenant with Noah

After the flood, God establishes a covenant with Noah, his descendants, and every living creature. Genesis 9:9-10 records, "Behold, I now establish My covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that was with you—the birds, the livestock, and every beast of the earth—every living thing that came out of the ark." This covenant underscores God's ongoing care for all creatures and reaffirms the responsibility of humans to respect and preserve animal life.

Dietary Laws and Sacrifices

The Mosaic Law includes specific instructions regarding animals, reflecting their role in Israelite society and worship. Leviticus 11 outlines clean and unclean animals, guiding dietary practices. Additionally, animals play a central role in the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and worship. The sacrificial use of animals points to the seriousness of sin and the need for redemption, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29).

Wisdom Literature and Proverbs

The wisdom literature of the Bible often reflects on the relationship between humans and 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 verse highlights the moral responsibility of humans to treat animals with kindness and care, reflecting a righteous character.

Eschatological Hope

The prophetic literature and New Testament writings offer glimpses of a restored creation where harmony between humans and animals is reestablished. Isaiah 11:6-9 envisions a future where "the wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat." This imagery points to the peace and restoration that will characterize God's kingdom.

Throughout Scripture, the relationship between humans and animals is a testament to God's creative order, humanity's responsibility, and the hope of redemption and restoration.