Philo, the great Jewish philosopher of Alexandria, grappled with these questions centuries ago. And his interpretations, preserved in what we call The Midrash of Philo, offer a fascinating perspective. Philo dives deep into the creation narrative, exploring not just what happened, but why. He asks: What does it mean that God gave humans dominion over the animals? Was Noah, after the flood, granted the same honor as Adam?
Philo points out that the scripture says, "And God made man; in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and said, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth; and be ye lords over it…” (Genesis 1:27-28). God bestows this power upon humanity right from the start. And this echoes in the story of Noah, who, after the deluge, receives a similar mandate. Philo sees a profound connection here, suggesting that Noah, in a way, represents a "second creation" of humanity.
But here's where it gets really interesting. Philo distinguishes between two versions of man's creation. He argues that the first Adam, the one created "in the image of God," is different from the Adam fashioned from clay. He sees the first Adam as an "incorporeal entity," a being of pure spirit, created on the sixth day, a number considered perfect. The second Adam, formed from the earth, comes later, on the seventh day, after the world is complete.
Why this distinction? Philo suggests that it's about more than just physical creation. It's about the potential for humans to cultivate wisdom and virtue. He interprets the dominion over animals allegorically. It's not just about physical control, but about the soul's ability to master its own base instincts.
Think about it: What does it mean to "rule over" beasts? Philo argues it means subduing wickedness, which he sees as untamed and savage. "Flying fowls," with their lightness and pride, represent arrogance and mischief. And the "creeping things?" Those are the destructive vices that slither through the soul: concupiscence (strong sexual desire), sadness, cowardice. Even the "fishes," pursuing a life of fleeting pleasure, represent a lack of wisdom and sobriety.
So, according to Philo, God wants the souls of wise people to cultivate beauty and virtue, filling their minds like the earth is filled, leaving no room for folly. And this inner transformation is what truly allows us to fulfill our role as stewards of creation.
Philo's interpretation might seem a bit different from what you might have heard before. But it invites us to consider: What does it truly mean to be created in God’s image? Is it simply a matter of physical form? Or does it involve cultivating inner qualities of wisdom, virtue, and self-mastery? Perhaps, according to Philo, it’s both.