God as the Source of Creation
Jews believe that God created the earth and all living things. The Torah teaches that creation was not random but intentional – the world was made exactly as God wanted it. This belief shows God’s omnipotence (all-powerful) and omniscience (all-knowing).
Because the world belongs to God, Jews believe it must be treated with respect. Humans are tenants on God’s earth, not owners.
The Creation Story and Shabbat
The Torah (Genesis 1) describes God creating the world in six days and resting on the seventh. On the seventh day God blessed creation and declared it good.
This is why Jews keep Shabbat, resting on the seventh day each week. By doing this, they honour God as Creator and show respect for His creation.
Sanctity of Life and Respect for Living Things
Because God created life, human life is sacred – this is known as the sanctity of life.
Animals must also be treated kindly and not abused. Some Jews choose to be vegetarian or vegan because animals are part of God’s creation.
This belief encourages Jews to campaign for justice and the protection of the environment. For example, they may support action against global warming or conservation projects.
Stewardship of the Earth
The Torah repeatedly says that God’s creation was “good”. Jews have a duty to ensure it remains good by acting as stewards (guardians). This means:
Not overusing or abusing natural resources.
Avoiding damage to the environment.
Ensuring that God’s resources are shared fairly among all people and creatures.
The earth is seen as being on loan from God, so humans must take responsibility for caring for it.
God as Sustainer
God not only created the world but continues to sustain it. He provides the resources – food, water, air, light – that humans and animals need to survive. Jews believe they must act responsibly to make sure these resources are not wasted, so that everyone has enough.
Support from Scripture
Genesis 1–2: God creates the world and rests on the seventh day.
Psalms 8: “When I look at your heavens… what are human beings that you are mindful of them?” (humans have dignity but also responsibility).
Psalm 104: celebrates God’s creation and ongoing care for the earth.
📚 Key Terms:
The account of how God made the universe.
Part of the understanding of the nature of God; the belief that God created the world from nothing.
Key moral principle; fairness in the way people are treated.
God is all-powerful; he can do anything.
God is all-knowing; he knows everything.
The Sabbath/holy day of the week; beginning at sunset on Friday until sunset on Saturday.
🔗 Related Resources:
Level: GCSE