Lesson Description: Image of God

In this thought-provoking session, we take a deep dive into one of the most profound theological concepts: the “Image of God.” Drawing from Maimonides’ philosophical works and earlier sources such as Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi, this class explores the unique qualities of humanity that align us with the divine and how these qualities distinguish us from other creatures.

We revisit foundational texts, including Genesis and Maimonides’ Guide for the Perplexed, to redefine the meaning of “image” and “likeness.” These terms are not about physical resemblance but about the intellectual and moral capacities that connect humans to God and distinguish them within creation. The discussion challenges us to think about the implications of these capacities and how they are nurtured, sustained, or lost.

Key Topics Covered:

• What is the “Image of God”?
  Understanding “image” as the essential characteristics of intellect and morality, rather than physical attributes.
• Intellect as a Divine Connection:
  The role of human intellect in forging a connection to God and the ability to comprehend abstract and eternal truths.
• The Path to Imitating God:
  Examining how emulating God’s actions—compassion, justice, and kindness—fulfills the ultimate purpose of being created in God’s image.
• The Non-Biological Nature of the Divine Image:
  How this concept is not a genetic inheritance but a quality nurtured through education, ethical behavior, and spiritual striving.
• Practical Implications:
  The responsibilities of those with this divine image to uphold justice, charity, and righteousness in their daily lives.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this class, participants will:

• Grasp the philosophical and theological meaning of being created in the “Image of God.”
• Appreciate the profound link between intellect, morality, and the divine.
• Understand how intellectual and moral growth can strengthen their connection to God.
• Learn to identify and emulate divine attributes in their interactions with others.
• Reflect on the broader ethical and spiritual responsibilities tied to this unique human distinction.

This class offers an inspiring blend of rigorous intellectual analysis and spiritual insight, inviting participants to deepen their understanding of humanity’s divine potential and how to actualize it in their lives. Join us as we uncover what it truly means to reflect the “Image of God.”