TO DOMINATE OR TO CARE?

DECOLONIAL PERSPECTIVES FOR AN EMANCIPATORY ECOTHEOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS IN DIALOGICITY WITH TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION

Abstract

This article analyzes the Hebrew word וְיִרְדּוּ֩ (wəyirdû) — generally translated as “to dominate” —in Genesis 1:26 and 28, proposing a reinterpretation of the meaning of “to care.” Based on this discussion, we recommend approaches for an ecotheological education that engages with decoloniality and transformative education. We begin with the following problematization: does the word וְיִרְדּוּ֩ (wəyirdû), present in Genesis 1:26 and 28, convey the idea of ​​dominion or care? How can we, based on this reinterpretation, consider educational pathways toward an integral ecotheology? Thus, our goal is to purposefully develop pathways toward a critical ecotheological education that moves beyond the notion of dominion over creation to care for the planet. Our specific objectives are: (i) to understand the neoliberal vision of environmental dominion; (ii) critically evaluate the idea of ​​dominion from a decolonial perspective; (iii) analyze the Hebrew word וְיִרְדּוּ֩ (wəyirdû), meaning “to dominate,” proposing an alternative translation to mean “care”; and (iv) point to paths for a decolonial and transformative ecotheological education. The research follows a methodology of semantic analysis associated with contextual critical hermeneutics. We believe it is justified in a context in which Christianity tends to view creation from two perspectives: unrestricted use, from a neoliberal perspective; and escapist, paying no attention to environmental issues. In this sense, the article can serve as a tool for raising awareness and amplifying environmental discussions.