Veritatis Gaudium: Multidisciplinary Journal of Postgraduate Studies

This paper explores the theological and anthropological significance of humanity’s creation in the image and likeness of God (Imago Dei). It argues that humans occupy a unique position as the second order in both creation and revelation, endowed with extraordinary intelligence, dignity, and dominion by an eternally intelligent Creator. The study examines how humanity’s failure to fully appreciate this divine endowment and intimate relationship with God contributed to the Fall, the entrance of sin, and the subsequent fracturing of the human soul, body, and spirit. This rupture has manifested in widespread social ills—ranging from moral corruption and spiritual alienation to physical manifestations such as inequality, violence, substance abuse, and environmental degradation. Drawing on Scripture (particularly Genesis 1:26–27 and Psalm 8), Kevin Vanhoozer’s theological insights, and supporting scholarship, the paper affirms that God adequately equipped humanity with the wisdom, knowledge, and authority needed to govern creation and resist evil. It further identifies the remote causes of humanity’s current crises and points toward restoration through renewed understanding of the Imago Dei. Ultimately, the study calls for a recovery of human identity and responsibility before God, creation, and society.

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