THE IMAGO DEI AS THE MIND OF JESUS CHRIST. Issue 3 (September 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carter, Christopher
• Is Part Of: Zygon. Volume 49:Issue 3(2014)
• Page Start: 752
• Page End: 760
• Publication Date: 2014-09
• Subjects: Religion and science -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 200
• DOI: 10.1111/zygo.12117
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0591-2385

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>In this essay I examine David Clough's interpretation of the <italic>imago Dei</italic> and his use of "creaturely" language in his book <italic>On Animals: Volume 1, Systematic Theology</italic>. Contrary to Clough, I argue that the <italic>imago Dei</italic> should be interpreted as being uniquely human. Using a neuroscientific approach, I elaborate on my claim that while Jesus is the image of God perfected, the <italic>imago Dei</italic> is best understood as having the mind of Christ. In regards to language, I make the case that using terms such as "creature" when referring to nonhuman animals is problematic in that it can serve to alienate human beings from their capacity to image God. In addition I argue that "creaturely" language raises concerns for the African American community given Western Christianity's history as it relates to their valuation of black bodies and human enslavement.</p> </abstract>