Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'in the image of God made He man' mean in Genesis 9:6?
A: The phrase 'in the image of God' (בְּצֶלֶם אֱלֹהִים) teaches that every human being has inherent dignity and sanctity because they reflect God's likeness. Rashi explains that this means humans possess intelligence and free will, distinguishing them from animals. The Rambam (Maimonides) adds that it refers to our capacity for wisdom and moral understanding.
Q: Why is murder considered such a severe sin in Judaism?
A: Murder is a grave sin because it destroys a life created in God's image (Genesis 9:6). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) states that killing a person is like diminishing God's presence in the world. The Torah emphasizes the severity of this crime by prescribing capital punishment for intentional murder (subject to strict legal procedures in Jewish courts).
Q: Does Genesis 9:6 apply to all people or just Jews?
A: This verse is part of the Noahide Laws, which apply to all humanity. The Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Laws of Kings 9:4) explains that one of the seven universal commandments given to Noah's descendants prohibits murder. Therefore, all people—Jews and non-Jews—are accountable for upholding this moral law.
Q: How does the concept of 'image of God' affect how we treat others?
A: Since every person is created in God's image (Genesis 9:6), we must treat everyone with respect and kindness. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 24:7) teaches that this principle obligates us to honor each individual's life, dignity, and rights. It also reminds us to avoid harmful speech, violence, or any form of degradation toward others.
Q: What is the meaning of 'by man shall his blood be shed' in Genesis 9:6?
A: This phrase establishes the principle of human justice—that society must hold murderers accountable through a fair legal system. Rashi explains that it implies a court of law must carry out justice, not private vengeance. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57b) discusses the strict evidentiary requirements needed to impose capital punishment, emphasizing the gravity of taking a life.
The Severity of Murder in Jewish Law
The verse "שֹׁפֵךְ דַּם הָאָדָם בָּאָדָם דָּמוֹ יִשָּׁפֵךְ" establishes the fundamental prohibition against murder and its severe consequences. Rashi (Bereshit 9:6) explains that this verse underscores the gravity of taking a human life, as it is tantamount to destroying a being created "בְּצֶלֶם אֱלֹהִים" (in the image of God). The Rambam (Hilchot Rotzeach 1:4) further elaborates that this principle applies universally, not just to Jews, as it was given to Noach and his descendants—the foundational Noachide laws.
The Sanctity of Human Life
The phrase "כִּי בְּצֶלֶם אֱלֹהִים עָשָׂה אֶת־הָאָדָם" highlights the intrinsic sanctity of human life. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 37a) derives from this that one who destroys a single life is considered as if they have destroyed an entire world, emphasizing the infinite value of each individual. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 34:14) teaches that this divine image refers to the unique human capacity for intellect, morality, and free will, distinguishing humanity from other creations.
Justice and Capital Punishment
The prescription "דָּמוֹ יִשָּׁפֵךְ" implies a system of justice administered by human courts. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 12:2) clarifies that capital punishment requires rigorous legal standards, including witnesses and warnings, ensuring that execution is not arbitrary but a measured response to severe crimes. The Talmud (Makkot 7a) notes that a Sanhedrin that executes once in seventy years is considered "bloodthirsty," reflecting Judaism's cautious approach to the death penalty.
Moral and Theological Implications