In the biblical context, pack animals played a crucial role in the logistics and transportation of supplies for armies. The harsh and varied terrains of the ancient Near East necessitated the use of animals that could carry heavy loads over long distances, ensuring that armies remained well-supplied during campaigns.

Camels
Camels were among the most valuable pack animals in biblical times, especially in desert regions. Known for their endurance and ability to travel long distances without water, camels were indispensable for transporting goods across arid landscapes. In the Bible, camels are often associated with wealth and trade, as seen in the account of the Queen of Sheba bringing gifts to Solomon (1 Kings 10:2). While not explicitly mentioned in the context of military logistics, their utility in transporting goods would have naturally extended to army supplies.

Donkeys
Donkeys were another common pack animal used in biblical times. They are frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as beasts of burden. In the context of military logistics, donkeys would have been used to carry food, weapons, and other supplies. For instance, in 1 Samuel 25:18, Abigail quickly prepares a large quantity of food and loads it onto donkeys to appease David, illustrating their use in transporting provisions.

Mules
Mules, the offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, were valued for their strength and endurance. They are mentioned in the Bible as animals used by kings and nobles, indicating their importance and reliability. In 2 Samuel 18:9, Absalom rides a mule, which underscores their use in both transportation and military contexts. Mules would have been well-suited for carrying heavy loads over difficult terrain, making them ideal for transporting army supplies.

Horses
While primarily associated with chariots and cavalry, horses also played a role in transporting supplies. In 1 Kings 4:28, it is noted that barley and straw were brought for the horses and swift steeds, indicating the logistical support required for maintaining a military force. Horses, with their speed and strength, would have been used to transport critical supplies quickly when needed.

Oxen
Oxen were used for their strength and ability to pull heavy loads. In the context of military logistics, oxen would have been employed to transport large quantities of supplies, such as food and equipment, especially in carts. In 1 Samuel 6:7, oxen are used to pull a cart carrying the Ark of the Covenant, demonstrating their capacity for transporting significant loads.

Biblical References and Implications
The use of pack animals in the Bible highlights the practical considerations of ancient warfare and the importance of logistics in sustaining military campaigns. The reliance on these animals underscores the interconnectedness of human and animal labor in achieving strategic objectives. The biblical narratives, while often focusing on the spiritual and moral dimensions of warfare, also provide glimpses into the everyday realities faced by armies, including the critical role of pack animals in ensuring their operational effectiveness.1 Chronicles 12:40
Moreover they that were near them, even to Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, and meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly: for there was joy in Israel.
Nave's Topical Index

The Memphite Empire
... and elsewhere in moderate quantities, were used in the ... The figures of men and animals
are portrayed with a ... duty was incumbent on others of transporting them as ...
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