Topical Bible: Donkey: Domesticated for Food

◄ Donkey: Domesticated for Food ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The donkey, a domesticated member of the horse family, has been a significant animal in biblical times, serving various roles in the daily life of ancient peoples. While primarily known for its use as a beast of burden and a means of transportation, the donkey also appears in the context of food in the Bible, albeit less commonly than other animals.

Biblical References and Context

In the ancient Near East, donkeys were highly valued for their strength, endurance, and ability to carry heavy loads over long distances. They were essential for trade, agriculture, and travel. However, the consumption of donkey meat is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in times of extreme famine or siege, when typical food sources were scarce.

One of the most notable references to the consumption of donkey meat is found in the account of the siege of Samaria. In 2 Kings 6:25, the Bible describes a severe famine in Samaria, where the people were driven to desperate measures: "So there was a great famine in Samaria, and they besieged it until a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter of a cab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver." This passage highlights the dire circumstances that led to the consumption of donkey meat, which was not a common practice under normal conditions.

Cultural and Dietary Laws

The dietary laws given to the Israelites in the Torah, specifically in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, outline the animals considered clean and unclean for consumption. Donkeys, being part of the equine family, do not have a split hoof and do not chew the cud, thus classifying them as unclean animals. Leviticus 11:3-4 states, "You may eat any animal that has a split hoof completely divided and that chews the cud. But of those that only chew the cud or only have a split hoof, you are not to eat them." Consequently, the regular consumption of donkey meat would have been contrary to the dietary laws observed by the Israelites.

Symbolism and Significance

Beyond their practical uses, donkeys hold symbolic significance in the Bible. They are often associated with humility, service, and peace. The most famous biblical account involving a donkey is Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He rides on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9: "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." This event underscores the donkey's role as a symbol of peace, contrasting with the horse, which is often associated with war.

Conclusion

While the donkey was not a regular part of the diet in biblical times due to its classification as an unclean animal, its consumption during extreme circumstances, such as sieges, is documented in the Scriptures. The donkey's primary roles were utilitarian and symbolic, serving as a testament to its enduring presence and significance in biblical history.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 6:25
And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass's head was sold for fourscore pieces of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove's dung for five pieces of silver.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Nile and Egypt
... The lasso and "bolas""The domestication of animals"Plants used for food"The lotus ...
purity of form and a vigour to which the European donkey has long been a ...
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