Dominion
רָדָה (Radah)
To rule, have dominion, or exercise authority over creation.
The Hebrew word radah means to rule or have dominion, describing the authority God delegated to humanity over creation in Genesis.
"And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth." — Genesis 1:26 (KJV)
Key Verses
Genesis 1:26
“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth.”Read in context
Psalm 8:6
“Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet.”Read in context
Psalm 72:8
“He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's H7287 — Dominion (רָדָה (Radah))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where רָדָה (Radah) appears.
Open Strong's H7287The Meaning of Radah
Radah means to rule, tread down, or have dominion. In Genesis 1:26, God grants humanity radah over the created order — a delegated authority to govern, steward, and care for the earth. This is not tyrannical power but representative rule under God's ultimate sovereignty.
Dominion as Stewardship
The biblical concept of dominion is inseparable from responsibility. Humans were placed in the garden to 'dress it and keep it' (Genesis 2:15). Radah therefore implies nurturing oversight, not exploitation. Humanity's dominion reflects God's own caring rule over all creation.
Dominion and the Messiah
Psalm 72 prophetically extends dominion to the Messianic King who will rule from sea to sea. In Christ, the original mandate of Genesis 1 is ultimately fulfilled — a righteous King who governs with justice, compassion, and perfect wisdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does dominion mean in Genesis?
In Genesis, dominion (radah) means the God-given authority to rule over and care for creation. It is delegated authority exercised under God's sovereignty, implying responsible stewardship rather than exploitation.
Does dominion mean humans can exploit nature?
No. Biblical dominion (radah) is paired with the mandate to 'dress and keep' the earth (Genesis 2:15), indicating caring stewardship. Exploitation contradicts the Creator's intent for human rule.
What is the Hebrew word for "Dominion" in the Bible?
רָדָה (Radah), pronounced "rah-DAH." It means to rule, have dominion, or exercise authority over creation. Its Strong's number is H7287. It is the word behind "Dominion" in the Old Testament, for example in Genesis 1:26.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Dominion"?
Genesis 1:26 — "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth" (KJV). It also appears in Psalm 8:6, Psalm 72:8.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Dominion (רָדָה (Radah))
To rule, have dominion, or exercise authority over creation.
Strong's H7287 — Dominion
רָדָה (Radah) • To rule, have dominion, or exercise authority over creation.
Genesis 1:26 — Meaning & Devotional
Identity
Genesis 1:26 Commentary
In-depth study • Creation & Identity
Genesis 1:26-27 Commentary
In-depth study • Image of God
Stewardship (οἰκονομία (oikonomia))
The management of a household — responsible care of what God has entrusted.
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