Topical Bible: Donkey: Domesticated used for Riding

◄ Donkey: Domesticated used for Riding ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The donkey, a domesticated member of the horse family, holds a significant place in biblical narratives and ancient Near Eastern culture. Known for its endurance, strength, and ability to navigate difficult terrain, the donkey was a valuable asset in agrarian societies. In the Bible, donkeys are frequently mentioned as beasts of burden, symbols of peace, and instruments of divine purpose.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The donkey is first introduced in the Bible in Genesis, where it is listed among the animals that Abram acquired in Egypt (Genesis 12:16). This early mention underscores the donkey's role as a valuable possession and a sign of wealth.

In the account of Balaam, the donkey becomes an instrument of divine intervention. Balaam's donkey, seeing the angel of the LORD, refuses to proceed, ultimately speaking to Balaam and revealing the angel's presence (Numbers 22:21-33). This narrative highlights the donkey's role as a vehicle for divine communication and protection.

The donkey is also associated with peace and humility, contrasting with the horse, which is often linked to war. This symbolism is poignantly illustrated in the prophecy of Zechariah, which foretells the coming of a king "righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey" (Zechariah 9:9). This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Testament when Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, an event celebrated on Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:1-7). This act signifies Jesus' peaceful mission and messianic identity.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, donkeys were essential for transportation and agriculture. They were used to carry goods, plow fields, and transport people. The donkey's ability to carry heavy loads over long distances made it indispensable for trade and travel.

The donkey's significance is further emphasized in the account of the patriarchs. For instance, Abraham saddles his donkey when he sets out to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:3), and Jacob sends donkeys laden with gifts to appease Esau (Genesis 32:13-15). These accounts reflect the donkey's role in daily life and its importance in fulfilling God's plans.

Donkeys in Parables and Teachings

Jesus often used familiar elements from daily life in His teachings, and the donkey appears in several parables and lessons. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the Samaritan places the injured man on his own donkey, demonstrating compassion and mercy (Luke 10:34). This use of the donkey underscores its role in service and care for others.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, the donkey serves as a symbol of humility, service, and divine purpose. Its presence in key biblical narratives and teachings highlights its importance in the cultural and spiritual life of ancient Israel. The donkey's enduring legacy in Scripture continues to offer insights into God's character and His ways of working through humble means to accomplish His divine will.

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Genesis 22:3
And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and split the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went to the place of which God had told him.
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Numbers 22:21-33
And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab.
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Joshua 15:18
And it came to pass, as she came to him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off her ass; and Caleb said to her, What would you?
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Judges 1:14
And it came to pass, when she came to him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted from off her ass; and Caleb said to her, What will you?
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Judges 5:10
Speak, you that ride on white asses, you that sit in judgment, and walk by the way.
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1 Samuel 25:23
And when Abigail saw David, she hurried, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground,
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2 Chronicles 28:15
And the men which were expressed by name rose up, and took the captives, and with the spoil clothed all that were naked among them, and arrayed them, and shod them, and gave them to eat and to drink, and anointed them, and carried all the feeble of them on asses, and brought them to Jericho, the city of palm trees, to their brothers: then they returned to Samaria.
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Zechariah 9:9
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, your King comes to you: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding on an ass, and on a colt the foal of an ass.
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