Image
צֶלֶם (Tselem)
An image or likeness — humanity created in the image of God.
The Hebrew word tselem means image or likeness, describing the foundational truth that every human being is created in the image of God (imago Dei).
"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." — Genesis 1:27 (KJV)
Key Verses
Genesis 1:27
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.”Read in context
Genesis 9:6
“Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.”Read in context
Psalm 139:14
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's H6754 — Image (צֶלֶם (Tselem))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where צֶלֶם (Tselem) appears.
Open Strong's H6754The Meaning of Tselem
Tselem means image, likeness, or representation. In the ancient Near East, kings placed images of themselves in distant territories to represent their authority. Similarly, God placed humanity in creation as His image-bearers — living representatives of His character, authority, and creative nature. Every human being carries this divine stamp.
The Implications of Imago Dei
The doctrine of the image of God (imago Dei) is the foundation of human dignity, worth, and rights. Because every person bears God's image, every life has inherent value. This truth underlies the prohibition against murder (Genesis 9:6), commands to love our neighbor, and the call to treat all people with respect regardless of status, race, or ability.
The Restored Image
While the fall marred the image of God in humanity, it did not destroy it. Through Christ — who is 'the image of the invisible God' (Colossians 1:15) — the divine image is being restored in believers. Sanctification is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ, recovering what was lost in Eden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'image of God' mean?
The image of God (tselem) means that humans were created to be living representatives of God — reflecting His character, rationality, creativity, moral capacity, and relational nature. It is the foundation of human dignity and worth.
Is the image of God lost after the fall?
The image was marred by sin but not destroyed. Genesis 9:6, given after the fall, still bases the sanctity of human life on the image of God. Through Christ, the image is being progressively restored in believers.
What is the Hebrew word for "Image" in the Bible?
צֶלֶם (Tselem), pronounced "TSEH-lem." It means an image or likeness — humanity created in the image of god. Its Strong's number is H6754. It is the word behind "Image" in the Old Testament, for example in Genesis 1:27.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Image"?
Genesis 1:27 — "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them" (KJV). It also appears in Genesis 9:6, Psalm 139:14.
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Image (צֶלֶם (Tselem))
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Strong's H6754 — Image
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