In biblical times, the bullock, or young bull, was a significant animal in agricultural practices, particularly for plowing fields. The use of bullocks for plowing is mentioned in various passages of the Bible, highlighting their importance in the agrarian society of ancient Israel.

The bullock was valued for its strength and endurance, making it an ideal animal for the labor-intensive task of plowing. In the book of Deuteronomy, the law underscores the importance of not muzzling an ox while it treads out the grain, which can be extended to the use of bullocks in plowing. This law, found in Deuteronomy 25:4 , states, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain." This principle reflects the care and respect for the animals that contributed significantly to the agricultural productivity of the community.

In 1 Kings 19:19 , the prophet Elijah finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. This passage illustrates the use of multiple pairs of oxen, or bullocks, to efficiently plow large fields, indicating the scale of agricultural operations and the reliance on these animals for successful farming.

The use of bullocks for plowing is also metaphorically significant in the Scriptures. In the book of Proverbs, the strength of the ox is associated with increased productivity: "Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but an abundant harvest comes through the strength of the ox" (Proverbs 14:4). This proverb highlights the essential role of bullocks in ensuring a bountiful harvest, emphasizing their contribution to the sustenance and prosperity of the community.

Furthermore, the biblical narrative often uses the imagery of plowing to convey spiritual truths. In Luke 9:62 , Jesus uses the metaphor of plowing to describe the commitment required to follow Him: "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." This metaphor draws on the understanding of plowing as a focused and forward-looking task, much like the dedication required in the spiritual journey.

Overall, the use of bullocks for plowing in the Bible reflects both the practical and symbolic significance of these animals in the life and faith of the ancient Israelites. Their role in agriculture was crucial for the survival and prosperity of the people, and their strength and reliability made them a fitting symbol for spiritual teachings.1 Samuel 14:14
And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armor bearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow.
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1 Kings 19:19
So he departed there, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle on him.
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Proverbs 14:4
Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
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Isaiah 32:20
Blessed are you that sow beside all waters, that send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass.
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Jeremiah 31:18
I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus; You have chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke: turn you me, and I shall be turned; for you are the LORD my God.
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