The Imago Dei Concept as a Symbol of Human Dignity? A Critical Examination: An Outline

Wojciech Szczerba

doi:10.36124/rt.2025.08

Published: 2025-12-281

Vol. 67 No. 1 (2025)

The Imago Dei Concept as a Symbol of Human Dignity? A Critical Examination

Wojciech Szczerba

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4265-506X

https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2025.08

An Outline

Abstract

The article examines the religious concept of the image of God – Imago Dei, as a foundational symbol of human dignity. It analyses three main perspectives: the ontological, relational, and functional. The ontological interpretation concerns each human, or a particular aspect of each human, as a reflection/image of God. The relational view emphasizes the interconnection of humankind and the connection between humans and God. The functional understanding of imago Dei perceives humanity as a representative of God on earth, responsible for stewardship of the rest of creation. Yet, the article raises questions about the potential negative implications of the concept and its traditional understanding. The promotion of exclusivism, patriarchy, and anthropocentrism may serve as a few examples underlining that interpretations of imago Dei have, at times, justified social inequalities and environmental exploitation. Contemporary theologians, like Jürgen Moltmann, propose an understanding of imago Dei that integrates universal human rights and ecological responsibility. Yet, various challenges remain, especially about such issues as the situation of people with disabilities, refugee crises, and technological developments. The article points out that the future relevance of imago Dei depends on humanity’s ability to embrace its principles inclusively, i.e., respecting the dignity of all individuals and the significance of the earth, the home of all humankind.

Keywords:

Imago Dei, image of God, biblical anthropology, Moltmann, Habermas, post-religious society, human dignity

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Szczerba, W. (2025). The Imago Dei Concept as a Symbol of Human Dignity? A Critical Examination: An Outline. Theological Yearbook, 67(1). https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2025.08

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