Summary
In the ancient world, specifically the Ancient Near East, to be made in the image of God was a depiction reserved for only two things: idols and kings. When Genesis uses this phrase, “image of God” it uses the Hebrew word selem for “image.” You might be surprised to learn this, but selem is often translated as “idol” in our Bibles - “the idols of God.”
Talking Points
Community of God; God's Idols; Subduing and Dominion over Earth; Ruling and Reigning on God's Behalf; Restoring the Broken Image; Jesus.
Links/Reference
The Meaning of the Bible - Douglas Knight & Amy-Jill Levine
The Lost World of Adam and Eve - John Walton
Bible Project (Image of God)
Adam as Israel - Seth Postell
Summary
In the ancient world, specifically the Ancient Near East, to be made in the image of God was a depiction reserved for only two things: idols and kings. When Genesis uses this phrase, “image of God” it uses the Hebrew word selem for “image.” You might be surprised to learn this, but selem is often translated as “idol” in our Bibles - “the idols of God.”
Talking Points
Community of God; God's Idols; Subduing and Dominion over Earth; Ruling and Reigning on God's Behalf; Restoring the Broken Image; Jesus.
Links/Reference
The Meaning of the Bible - Douglas Knight & Amy-Jill Levine
The Lost World of Adam and Eve - John Walton
Bible Project (Image of God)
Adam as Israel - Seth Postell