Written by: Lisa Polson
Article source: JOY! Magazine
An extinct wolf species – believed to exist over 10 000 years ago – is back. Well, sort of. In what has been hailed as the world’s first “successfully de-extincted animal”, scientists at Colossal Biosciences recently announced the birth of three genetically engineered wolf pups said to resemble the legendary Aenocyon dirus, better known as the dire wolf, a top predator that once roamed North America.
But this real-life scientific feat is raising more than just eyebrows. It’s has stirred deep ethical and theological debates. Are we, as humans, crossing a line by using modern science to bring back what God allowed to go extinct?
Dire wolf petrous bone ancient DNA sampling
Reviving the dire wolf
Colossal’s work began with the reconstruction of ancient DNA sourced from two dire wolf fossils, which scientists believe to be tens of thousands of years old (the timeline is not important here, the ethical question is our focus). These were used to assemble high-quality genomes and compare them with those of modern canines such as wolves, jackals, and foxes.
Scientists then used CRISPR gene-editing technology to modify grey wolf DNA at 20 specific genetic sites across 14 genes – changes that influence size, fur colour, jaw strength, and skull width. These edited cells were implanted into domestic dog surrogates, resulting in the birth of three hybrid wolf pups: Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi.
The company claims these animals bear a strong resemblance to the extinct dire wolves – larger, whiter, and more muscular than the typical grey wolf, though still genetically distinct. “They are not true dire wolves,” critics have said, “but genetically modified lookalikes.” Colossal says their goal is to help restore lost biodiversity and assist endangered species. But are such advancements truly a step forward?
Are we playing God?
The question of whether de-extinction constitutes “playing God” is a matter of ongoing debate, sparking ethical, philosophical, and theological questions about the role of humans in nature. It’s a challenging and very loaded question.
The case for de-extinction
Scientists often argue that DNA editing is simply a modern extension of what humans have always done: selective breeding, domestication, conservation efforts, and so on. CRISPR and genetic engineering are just more advanced tools. They argue that the goal isn’t to play God, but to understand nature better and possibly correct past ecological mistakes (like bringing back species humans helped wipe out).
The three genetically engineered wolf pups, Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi.
Concerns raised
Critics argue that reviving extinct species is crossing a moral line – stepping into a role reserved for God. It raises serious concerns:
• What if the revived animals suffer or can’t thrive?
• What are the consequences of reintroducing them into ecosystems that have since changed?
• Should the resources not rather be focused on protecting endangered species today, instead of trying to revive those already gone?
With great power comes great responsibility
While some see de-extinction as a noble attempt to heal the planet, others view it as a dangerous venture rooted in human pride. DNA manipulation places immense power in our hands – and with that power comes great responsibility. The danger isn’t the science itself, but how we choose to use it.
Biblical principles
The Bible offers principles that can help guide our thinking when it comes to using powerful technologies like DNA manipulation:
1. Stewardship of creation
“Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and keep it” (Gen 2:15). We are called to be caretakers of God’s creation, not exploiters. This includes using wisdom and care when interacting with nature, whether it’s through conservation or technology. Stewardship implies responsibility and accountability.
2. Using God-given wisdom
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God … and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). God gave humans the ability to learn, create, and discover. But innovation must be guided by wisdom, not just curiosity or ambition.
3. Reverence for life
“Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God” (Luke 12:6). The Bible teaches that life is sacred – human life most of all, but also the lives of animals and the wider creation. Any scientific practice that affects living creatures must be weighed against the value and sanctity of life.
4. Humility before God
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Prov 9:10). Just because we can do something doesn’t mean we should. True Biblical wisdom starts with recognising God’s authority and our human limitations. Pride in our own power or knowledge can be dangerous.
5. Love for others and creation
“Let all that you do be done with love” (1 Cor 16:14). Whether it’s helping endangered species, healing disease, or reviving extinct animals, the motive must always be love – love for people, for animals, and for the planet God entrusted to us.
HAVE YOUR SAY: Info@joymag.co.za
Do you think reviving extinct species is crossing a line?
This article is featured in the June issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 16/06/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from Colossal Biosciences
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