John Calvin Commentary Genesis 9:6

"Whoso sheddeth man`s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: For in the image of God made he man." — Genesis 9:6 (ASV)

Concerning the scriptural declaration, Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, the accompanying phrase “in man” serves to amplify its meaning. Some explain this as ‘before witnesses.’ Others refer it to what follows, namely, ‘that by man his blood should be shed.’ However, all these interpretations are strained.

It must be remembered, as I have said, that this language primarily expresses the heinousness of the crime, because whoever kills a man draws down upon himself the blood and life of his brother.

Consequently, those who think that a political law for the punishment of homicides is solely intended here are mistaken, in my judgment. Indeed, I do not deny that the punishments which laws ordain and judges execute are founded on this divine sentence; but I maintain that the words are more comprehensive. It is written:

Men of blood shall not live out half their days,
(Psalms 55:23).

And we see some die on highways, some in places of ill repute, and many in wars. Therefore, however much magistrates may overlook the crime, God sends executioners from other sources, who will give bloodthirsty men their due reward.

God so threatens and denounces vengeance against the murderer that He even arms the magistrate with the sword to avenge slaughter, so that human blood may not be shed with impunity.

For in the image of God made he man. For the greater confirmation of the preceding doctrines, God declares that He is not concerned about human life in this way hastily and for no reason.

Men are indeed unworthy of God’s care if they are considered only in themselves. But since they bear the image of God engraved on them, He considers Himself violated in their person.

Thus, although they have nothing of their own by which they might obtain God’s favor, He looks upon His own gifts in them and is thereby moved to love and care for them. This doctrine, however, must be carefully observed: no one can harm his brother without wounding God Himself.

If this doctrine were deeply fixed in our minds, we would be much more reluctant than we are to inflict injuries. Should anyone object that this divine image has been effaced, the solution is simple:

1. Some remnant of it still exists, so that man possesses considerable dignity.
2. The Heavenly Creator Himself, however corrupted man may be, still keeps in view the purpose of His original creation.

And, according to His example, we ought to consider for what purpose He created mankind and what excellence He has bestowed upon them above the rest of living beings.