What does the Bible say about care of animals?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that animals are God’s creatures, entrusted to human care under His wise rule, and should be treated with responsible kindness rather than cruelty or neglect. Genesis 1:28 gives humanity dominion over living creatures, a stewardship that reflects God’s authority and calls for humble service, not exploitation. Proverbs 12:10 commends the righteous person who regards the life of his animal, showing that godliness reaches even into ordinary acts of care. Deuteronomy 22:4 requires helping a neighbor’s fallen animal, revealing that love of neighbor includes practical concern for the creatures under another’s charge. Christians therefore may use animals rightly while honoring the Creator through compassionate, faithful stewardship.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Deuteronomy 22:4 21 votes
You shall not see your brother's donkey or his ox fallen down by the way, and hide yourself from them: you shall surely help him to lift them up again.
- Genesis 1:28 15 votes
God blessed them. God said to them, "Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."
- Proverbs 12:10 14 votes
A righteous man regards the life of his animal, But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
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