Journal Thirteen - 2/4/08

Zosima's Theology:

While I find many parts of Zosima's theology to be biblical there are a few certain parts in which his theology is flawed and does not mirror the biblical focal point. In this part of the novel Zosima hinges on the importance of prayer, love, and tuning into the world beyond the physical. However, there is one point which I find extremely incorrect.

On page 319 Zosima says "Love the animals: God gave thems rudiments of thought and of untroubled joy. Do not trouble it, do not torment them, do not take their joy from them, do not go against God's purpose. Man, do not exalt yourself above the animals: they are sinless and you, you with your grandeur, fester the earth by your appearance on it, and leave your festering trace behind you."

First, This is extremely un-biblical and goes against God's word. In Genesis God tells Adam, to rule over the animals, the fish of the sea and the birds of the air. He tells Adam to fill the earth and subdue it. Second, Animals do not have a sin nature. By this I mean, how can they possibly know if they are sinning. It seems highly illogical. Furthermore, Gods purpose for humans and animals was simple. Man does not exalt animal. Animals do not have the authority or power to rule over humans. Thus it would seem Zosima is going against God's teachings. While animals do may not have sin nature and may not know weather they are sinning, they do not have soul. Because animals do not have a soul they are not accountable.

Yes, it is true, humans are sinful and our SIN may fester the earth. However, the cost Christ paid for us is certainly enough to conquer our "festering sin". Zosima's logic and reasoning are incorrect. Animals are not higher than man. Not only by common sense but biblically. Adam was given clear instructions to rule over the animals and subdue it. Man certainly does not have to yield to animals. Man does not also have to worry about taking their joy.