Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "dog" often carries a negative connotation, symbolizing impurity, uncleanliness, or moral degradation. This is evident in various passages where dogs are associated with undesirable traits or behaviors. For instance, in Philippians 3:2, Paul warns believers to "Watch out for those dogs, those workers of evil, those mutilators of the flesh!" Here, "dogs" metaphorically represent false teachers or those who lead others astray.The term "sodomite" is historically linked to the inhabitants of Sodom, a city destroyed by divine judgment due to its grievous sins, as described in Genesis 19. The association of "sodomite" with certain immoral behaviors has been a topic of theological discussion, often interpreted as a reference to sexual immorality and deviation from God's design for human relationships. In Proverbs 30:29-31, the Berean Standard Bible mentions the "greyhound" as one of the four things that are stately in their stride: "There are three things that are stately in their stride, four that are impressive in their walk: a lion, mighty among beasts, and refusing to retreat; a strutting rooster, a he-goat, and a king with his army around him." The term "greyhound" in this context is translated from a Hebrew word that is somewhat ambiguous, leading to various interpretations. Some translations render it as "strutting rooster" or "war horse," reflecting the uncertainty in the original text. From a conservative Christian perspective, the mention of the greyhound in Proverbs is seen as an illustration of dignity and grace. The greyhound, known for its speed and elegance, serves as a metaphor for qualities that are admirable and worthy of emulation. This contrasts with the negative connotations of "dog" elsewhere in Scripture, highlighting the importance of context in biblical interpretation. In summary, while "dog" often symbolizes negative traits in the Bible, the mention of the "greyhound" in Proverbs 30 is an exception, representing grace and dignity. This distinction underscores the nuanced use of animal imagery in Scripture, inviting readers to discern the intended message within its broader theological and moral framework. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 30:31A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up. Nave's Topical Index Resources What did Jesus mean when He said to not cast your pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a Calebite? | GotQuestions.org Does Mark 16:16 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation? | GotQuestions.org Dog: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dog (Sodomite?): Dumb and Sleeping Dog (Sodomite?): Epithet of Contempt Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Lapping of Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Licking Blood Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Licking Sores Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Returns to Eat his own Vomit Dog (Sodomite?): Price of, not to be Brought Into the Sanctuary Dog (Sodomite?): Shepherd Dogs The Dog: (Dumb) of Unfaithful Ministers The Dog: Dangerous and Destructive The Dog: Infested Cities by Night The Dog: Manner of, in Drinking Alluded To The Dog: Nothing Holy to be Given To The Dog: Price of, not to be Consecrated The Dog: Sacrificing of, an Abomination The Dog: Things Torn by Beasts Given To The Dog: when Domesticated: Employed in Watching Flocks The Dog: when Domesticated: Fed With the Crumbs Related Terms |
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