Human dignity

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Who

Rooted in the Hebrew Bible's teaching that every person is created b'tzelem Elohim, in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

When

c. 6th century BCE (text)

Where

Ancient Israel / Judah

The idea that every human being possesses inherent, equal worth draws deeply on the Hebrew Bible's declaration that humankind is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This biblical concept of tzelem Elohim shaped Western notions of human dignity and equality that underlie modern human-rights thought.

Sources

Part of “The Gifts of the Jews” — verified Jewish contributions to the world, with sources.