Philippine E-Journals

Man and Environment: Exegesis of Genesis 1:26-28 in the Nigerian Context

Solomon Taiwo Babawale | Nathaniel Oluseyi Shogunle

Discipline: Religion

 

Abstract:

Environmental problem is an age-long issue that man has continued to struggle with. Various efforts have been made to solve this problem without success. Lynn White’s error of blaming Judeo-Christian arrogance to nature as cause for environmental problems has led to misinterpretation of environmental injunction in the Bible. This work examined the form of Gen 1:26-28 and evolved a hermeneutical methodology for its understanding and application in Nigeria today. A historical and exegetical study was carried out and corroborated with findings got from response to interviews conducted on selected churches on the application of environmental injunctions. Findings revealed that Nigerian Churches make use of the text. Consequently, the establishment of an ecumenical environment movement is suggested in order to have a common platform for relating with environmental organizations.