Imago Dei

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Imago Dei
Imago Dei in English means “the image of God.” This is a Christian doctrine that explains the relationship between human beings and God. It offers an understanding that we were created in the image of God. Thus, God himself bestowed his honor and dignity in every human being. This he does not consider their social, physical or mental status. Imago Dei as a concept only applies to human beings and has its roots in the book of Genesis (Sevensky 167). However, this concept doesn’t mean that the image of God is literary reflected but his essence, intellectual and moral nature.
This concept is essential and relevant in the healthcare industry as it is the source of human dignity, especially to the Western tradition. Thus it remains true for the healthcare practitioners such as nurses, physicians, social workers, and even psychologists that the patient is not just a fellow human being who is in distress but more importantly a likeness to a living God. Therefore, such awareness is vital in creating and fostering a transformation on how the caregiver interacts with their patients. Thus, imago Dei offers the industry with a practical recognition of the human sanctity (Sevensky 167). It was this concept that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God that made Mother Teresa of Calcutta care for the dying and sick people. Furthermore, it has motivated Christians and other religions throughout the history of humankind to take care of the poor people in the society (Shelly, Judith and Miller 23).

Thus, the history of health care is not only related to the progress in science, experimental, empirical or even superstition. It is as much intertwined deeply with religion as most Western healthcare industry is practically defined and measured through religious lenses.
Works cited
Sevensky, Robert L. “The religious foundations of health care: a conceptual approach.” Journal of medical ethics 9.3 (1983): 165-169.
Shelly, Judith Allen, and Arlene B. Miller. Called to care: A Christian worldview for nursing. InterVarsity Press, 2009. Pg.