GEN276 While no clear indication is given in the [Genesis] text to the precise meaning of “image of God,” tradition has variously identified it with such uniquely human capacities asfreedom of the will, reason, self-consciousness, moral deliberation, invention and the use of language (conceptual symbols), and cultural creativity.  Initially the only task given to man beyond the “natural” ones of to be “fruitful and multiply … and subdue the earth” is to obey the command of God. [See Seforno on this verse, who suggests that the words ולשמרה לעבדה may refer to man’s soul. Thus, man was placed in Eden to “cultivate and guard” his own spiritual capacity].  SPERO 60