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A Theological Study of ‘Animal Ethics’ in the Old Testament

  • The Korean Journal of Chiristian Social Ethics
  • Abbr : 기사윤
  • 2023, (56), pp.315-348
  • Publisher : The Society Of Korean Christian Social Ethics
  • Research Area : Humanities > Christian Theology
  • Received : June 30, 2023
  • Accepted : August 1, 2023
  • Published : August 31, 2023

Lee Keung Jae 1

1목원대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

Christian theology has not only been indifferent to animal welfare and life but has also had to contend with the popular prejudice that it provides theological justification for the destruction of ecosystems and the ruthless exploitation of animals since the Industrial Revolution. With dozens of animal species becoming extinct every day and ecological space for wildlife being continually destroyed, we wanted to find out what the Old Testament had to say. The solution which we ignore is already there in many Old Testament texts. The core of the ‘animal ethics’ proposed in this study is that God creates humans and animals to live and multiply. This fact is valid from the time of God‘s creation until the end. The wisdom literature of the Old Testament tells us that the ’righteous‘ take care of all that animals need to sustain life. The Old Testament promises rest and flourishing without distinguishing between domesticated animals that benefit humans and wild animals that harm humans. And the Old Testament never views animals as tools for economic gain. Ultimately, 'animal ethics' in the Old Testament begins with recognizing animals as God’s creatures and objects for which humans have responsibilities and obligations.

Citation status

* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.