Topical Encyclopedia The concept of beasts instinctively fearing man finds its roots in the early chapters of Genesis, where God establishes the relationship between humans and animals. This relationship is marked by a divinely ordained hierarchy and a natural fear that animals have towards humans.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural basis for this topic is found in Genesis 9:2, where God speaks to Noah and his sons after the flood: "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." . This verse indicates a divinely instituted fear that animals have towards humans, a fear that serves to maintain order and balance in the post-diluvian world. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, this fear is seen as part of God's covenant with Noah, which reaffirms humanity's dominion over the earth as initially established in Genesis 1:28: "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.'" . The fear that animals have towards humans is thus a continuation of the dominion mandate, ensuring that humans can fulfill their God-given role as stewards of creation. Human-Animal Relationship The instinctive fear of beasts towards man underscores the unique position of humans in creation. Unlike animals, humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), which sets them apart and grants them authority over other living creatures. This fear is not meant to be one of terror or cruelty but rather a recognition of the order established by God. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility humans have to care for and manage the animal kingdom wisely and compassionately. Practical Observations In practical terms, this fear can be observed in the natural world, where animals often exhibit caution or avoidance behaviors in the presence of humans. This instinctive response can be seen as a protective mechanism, allowing animals to survive and thrive while maintaining a respectful distance from human activity. It also highlights the need for humans to exercise their dominion with care, ensuring that their interactions with animals are marked by respect and stewardship rather than exploitation or harm. Moral and Ethical Considerations The fear of beasts towards man also carries moral and ethical implications. It calls for a balanced approach to the use of animals, whether for food, labor, or companionship. The biblical mandate to rule over animals does not grant license for abuse or neglect but rather calls for a stewardship that reflects God's care and provision for all His creation. This perspective encourages a harmonious coexistence, where humans recognize their role as caretakers and protectors of the animal world. In summary, the instinctive fear that beasts have towards man is a biblically grounded concept that reflects the divine order established by God. It serves as a reminder of humanity's unique role in creation and the responsibility that comes with it, urging a stewardship that honors God's design and purpose for all living creatures. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 9:2And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be on every beast of the earth, and on every fowl of the air, on all that moves on the earth, and on all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Demas The Ignatian Epistles and their Claims. The Internal Evidence. To the Disciples - Two Events and their Moral. Thy Rod and Thy Staff they Comfort Me. Watkinson -- the Transfigured Sackcloth The Long, Rough Road He Trod The Christ in the Garden The Young Titus (And Last): Homeward Bound The Shepherd of Pella Resources What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the image of the beast? | GotQuestions.org Who is the beast of Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Beasts: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Beasts: Capable of Being Tamed Beasts: Clean used for Sacrifice Beasts: Clean: First Born of, not Redeemed Beasts: Clean: How Distinguished Beasts: Creation of, Exhibits God's Power Beasts: Devoid of Understanding Beasts: Differ in Flesh from Birds and Fishes Beasts: Domestic: Not to be Cruelly Used Beasts: Domestic: To be Taken Care of Beasts: Domestic: To Enjoy the Sabbath Beasts: Early Distinguished Into Clean and Unclean Beasts: Frequently Suffered on Account of the Sins of Men Beasts: Given to Man for Food After the Flood Beasts: Habitations of Dens and Caves Beasts: Habitations of Deserted Cities Beasts: Habitations of Under Spreading Trees Beasts: Herb of the Field Given To, for Food Beasts: History of, Written by Solomon Beasts: Instinctively Fear Man Beasts: Lessons of Wisdom to be Learned From Beasts: Made for the Praise and Glory of God Beasts: Man by Nature No Better Than Beasts: Many Kinds of, Domestic Beasts: Many Kinds of, Noisome and Destructive Beasts: No Likeness of, to be Worshipped Beasts: Not to be Eaten Alive or With Blood Beasts: Often Cut off for the Sins of Men Beasts: Often Used As Instruments of Punishment Beasts: People of Different Nations Beasts: Power Over, Given to Man Beasts: Received Their Names from Adam Beasts: Representations of, Worshipped by the Heathen Beasts: Subjects of God's Care Beasts: Supply Clothing to Man Beasts: That Died Naturally or Were Torn, not to be Eaten Beasts: Unclean: Caused Uncleanness when Dead Beasts: Unclean: First Born of, Redeemed Beasts: Unclean: How Distinguished Beasts: Unclean: Not offered in Sacrifice Related Terms |
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