Topical Bible: Camel: Docility of

◄ Camel: Docility of ►

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The camel, a prominent animal in biblical times, is often associated with the nomadic lifestyle of the ancient Near East. Its docility is a notable characteristic that has been recognized throughout biblical narratives and historical accounts. The camel's ability to be tamed and its usefulness as a beast of burden made it an invaluable asset to the people of the Bible.

In Genesis 24:10-11, we see an example of the camel's docility in the account of Abraham's servant, who took ten camels from his master's herd to travel to the city of Nahor. The passage states, "Then the servant took ten of his master’s camels and departed, taking with him all sorts of choice gifts from his master. He set out and went to Aram Naharaim, to Nahor’s city. As evening approached, he made the camels kneel beside a well outside the city, the time when the women go out to draw water." . The camels' ability to kneel on command demonstrates their trainability and calm nature, which were essential for long journeys across the desert.

The docility of camels is further illustrated in the account of Rebekah's meeting with Abraham's servant. In Genesis 24:19-20, Rebekah offers to draw water for the camels, showing their dependence on human care and their gentle disposition as they wait patiently. "After she had given him a drink, she said, 'I will draw water for your camels as well, until they have had enough to drink.' So she quickly emptied her jar into the trough and ran back to the well to draw more water, and she drew enough for all his camels." . This interaction highlights the harmonious relationship between humans and camels, facilitated by the animals' docile nature.

In the New Testament, Jesus uses the camel in a metaphor to teach about the challenges of wealth and entering the kingdom of God. In Matthew 19:24, He states, "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." . While the focus of this passage is not on the camel's docility, the choice of the camel as a symbol reflects its common presence and familiarity in the daily lives of the people, underscoring its role as a manageable and obedient creature.

The camel's docility is also evident in its role in trade and commerce. In the account of Joseph, camels are part of the caravan of Ishmaelites traveling from Gilead to Egypt, carrying spices, balm, and myrrh (Genesis 37:25). The camels' ability to carry heavy loads over long distances without resistance made them indispensable for trade routes, further emphasizing their gentle and compliant nature.

Overall, the camel's docility is a significant aspect of its portrayal in the Bible, reflecting its importance in the daily life and economy of the biblical world. Its ability to be trained and its gentle demeanor made it a reliable companion for the patriarchs and a symbol of the interconnectedness of God's creation.

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Genesis 24:11
And he made his camels to kneel down without the city by a well of water at the time of the evening, even the time that women go out to draw water.
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The Requirements of the King
... And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the ... to Jesus, even
though, as Christ's answer shows, there was error mingling in his docility. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture b/the requirements of the king.htm