Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 9:2 mean when it says 'the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast'?
A: This verse, spoken after the Flood, means that Hashem granted humans dominance over animals. According to Rashi, this was a new decree after Noah's generation—animals would now naturally fear humans, unlike before when they did not (Rashi on Genesis 9:2). This shows humanity's elevated role in creation.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse establishes humanity's responsibility over animals and nature. The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 6:10) explains that while humans have permission to use animals for needs like food and labor, causing unnecessary suffering (tza'ar ba'alei chayim) is forbidden. It balances human authority with ethical treatment of creatures.
Q: How does Genesis 9:2 apply to our lives today?
A: This verse reminds us that while humans have dominion over animals, we must use this power responsibly. The Talmud (Bava Metzia 32b) derives from this that we must relieve an animal's suffering (e.g., helping a donkey carrying a heavy load). It teaches stewardship—using nature respectfully for needs, not cruelty.
Q: Did animals fear humans before this verse?
A: No. Midrash Bereishit Rabbah (34:12) explains that before the Flood, animals did not fear humans—they would attack or disobey them (like the snake in Eden). After the Flood, Hashem changed nature so animals would instinctively fear humans, making human survival and civilization possible.
Q: Does this mean humans can harm animals?
A: No. While the verse grants control, Jewish law strictly limits it. The Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat 272:9) forbids causing pain to animals without purpose. Kosher slaughter (shechita) requires minimizing suffering. Dominion means responsible care—using animals for needs like food or work, not wanton harm.
Context in Bereishit (Genesis 1:28)
This verse appears in the context of Hashem's blessing to Adam and Chava (Eve) after their creation, granting them dominion over the animal kingdom. The Torah emphasizes that humanity's unique role includes responsibility and authority over all living creatures.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereishit 1:28) notes that the phrase "וּמוֹרַאֲכֶם וְחִתְּכֶם" ("the fear of you and the dread of you") implies that animals would naturally fear humans, preventing them from attacking. However, Rashi clarifies that this inherent fear was diminished after the sin of Adam and Chava, and further weakened after the generation of the Flood (see Sanhedrin 38b). Only Noach and his descendants retained a partial measure of this dominion.
Rambam's Perspective on Human Dominion
Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:17) explains that human superiority over animals is rooted in intellect and divine wisdom. Unlike animals, humans possess the capacity for moral and spiritual growth, which justifies their stewardship over creation. This dominion is not for exploitation but for responsible use—aligning with the mitzvah of bal tashchit (avoiding wanton destruction).
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Chullin 7b) derives from this verse that humans may use animals for permissible needs (e.g., labor, food) but must avoid unnecessary cruelty (tza'ar ba'alei chayim). The Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat 272:9) codifies this principle, emphasizing ethical treatment of animals even in slaughter (shechita).
Kabbalistic Dimension
The Zohar (Bereishit 34b) teaches that Adam's original dominion extended to the spiritual realms, influencing even the angels. After the sin, this influence waned, but tzaddikim (righteous individuals) can still elevate creation through mitzvot and proper intent.