Topical Encyclopedia The he-ass, or male donkey, is a significant animal in biblical narratives and symbolism. Known for its strength, endurance, and humble nature, the he-ass is often depicted as a beast of burden, serving both practical and symbolic roles in Scripture.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 22:3 · The he-ass is first mentioned in the context of Abraham's journey to sacrifice Isaac. "So Abraham got up early the next morning, saddled his donkey, and took along two of his servants and his son Isaac." Here, the he-ass serves as a means of transportation, highlighting its role in facilitating obedience to God's commands. 2. Exodus 13:13 · The he-ass is involved in the laws of redemption: "But every firstborn donkey you must redeem with a lamb. If you do not redeem it, you must break its neck. And every firstborn of your sons you must redeem." This passage underscores the he-ass's value and the principle of redemption, reflecting the broader theme of substitutionary atonement. 3. Numbers 22:21-33 · The account of Balaam's donkey is one of the most famous biblical accounts involving a he-ass. Balaam's donkey sees the angel of the Lord and refuses to proceed, ultimately speaking to Balaam. This narrative illustrates the he-ass's role as an instrument of divine intervention and revelation. 4. Judges 15:15 · Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey to slay a thousand Philistines: "He found the fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men." The he-ass here symbolizes strength and unconventional means of deliverance. 5. 1 Samuel 9:3 · Saul's search for his father's lost donkeys leads to his anointing as king: "Now the donkeys belonging to Saul’s father Kish were lost, and Kish said to his son Saul, 'Take one of the servants and go look for the donkeys.'" This event signifies the he-ass's role in divine providence and the unfolding of God's plan for Israel. Symbolism and Themes: The he-ass is often associated with humility and service. Unlike the horse, which is a symbol of war and power, the donkey represents peace and servitude. This is exemplified in the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, fulfilled in the New Testament when Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, symbolizing His peaceful kingship: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." In biblical typology, the he-ass can also represent the stubbornness of humanity, as seen in Balaam's narrative, where the donkey perceives spiritual realities that the prophet does not. This serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual discernment and humility before God. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the donkey was a common domestic animal, valued for its ability to carry heavy loads over long distances. Its significance in daily life is reflected in its frequent mention in biblical texts. The he-ass's role in agriculture, transportation, and trade underscores its importance in the socio-economic fabric of biblical times. Overall, the he-ass is a multifaceted symbol in the Bible, representing themes of humility, service, divine intervention, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Its presence in key biblical narratives highlights its enduring significance in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the biblical world. Easton's Bible Dictionary Hebrews hamor, (Genesis 12:16), the general designation of the donkey used for carrying burdens (Genesis 42:26) and for ploughing (Isaiah 30:24). It is described in Genesis 49:14, 2 Samuel 19:26. (see ASS.) Strong's Hebrew 2543. chamor -- a male ass... he-ass. Or (shortened) chamor {kham-ore}; from chamar; a male ass (from its dun red) -- (he)ass. see HEBREW chamar. 2542, 2543. chamor. 2544 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/2543.htm - 6k Thesaurus Heass/h/heass.htm - 6k He-ass Hamor (13 Occurrences) Hearty (9 Occurrences) He-asses (1 Occurrence) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.orgI am Jewish, can I become a Christian? | GotQuestions.org If Jesus is God, why did He not know when He would return? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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