Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the occupation of shepherding is depicted as an abomination to the Egyptians, a cultural and religious sentiment that is highlighted in the book of Genesis. This aversion is particularly evident in the interactions between the Egyptians and the Hebrews, who were shepherds by trade.Biblical Context The primary reference to this cultural disdain is found in Genesis 46:34, where Joseph instructs his brothers on how to present themselves to Pharaoh: "You are to say, ‘Your servants have tended livestock from our youth until now, both we and our fathers.’ Then you will be allowed to settle in the land of Goshen, for all shepherds are detestable to the Egyptians." . This statement underscores the Egyptians' deep-seated aversion to shepherds, which influenced the settlement of the Israelites in the land of Goshen, a region suitable for grazing. Cultural and Religious Factors The Egyptians' disdain for shepherds can be attributed to several cultural and religious factors. Egypt was a highly stratified society with a strong emphasis on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops along the fertile Nile Delta. The pastoral lifestyle of shepherds, which involved nomadic or semi-nomadic movements and a focus on livestock, contrasted sharply with the settled, agrarian lifestyle of the Egyptians. Religiously, the Egyptians had a pantheon of deities associated with agriculture and the Nile, and their religious practices were closely tied to the cycles of planting and harvest. The pastoral practices of shepherds, which often involved the movement of flocks across lands, may have been seen as disruptive to the established agricultural order and religious observances. Historical and Social Implications The aversion to shepherds also had social implications. Shepherds were often viewed as lower in social status compared to farmers and those involved in the more esteemed agricultural practices. This social stratification is reflected in the Egyptians' treatment of the Hebrews, who were primarily shepherds. The Hebrews' settlement in Goshen, a region on the periphery of Egyptian society, allowed them to maintain their pastoral lifestyle while minimizing cultural friction with the Egyptians. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the Egyptians' disdain for shepherds serves to highlight the distinct identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people. Despite being viewed as an abomination by the Egyptians, the role of shepherds is elevated in the biblical narrative. Key figures such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and later David, who was a shepherd before becoming king, are portrayed as shepherds, emphasizing the pastoral metaphor that is central to the biblical understanding of leadership and care. The motif of the shepherd is further developed in the New Testament, where Jesus is depicted as the "Good Shepherd" (John 10:11), a title that underscores His role as the protector and guide of His flock, the Church. This imagery contrasts with the Egyptian view and elevates the shepherd's role to one of spiritual significance and divine care. In summary, the Egyptians' view of shepherds as an abomination is a multifaceted issue rooted in cultural, religious, and social factors. It serves as a backdrop to the biblical narrative, highlighting the distinct identity and divine purpose of the Israelites within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern societies. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:34That you shall say, Your servants' trade has been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that you may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination to the Egyptians. Nave's Topical Index Library The Shepherd of Our Souls. Chapter xlvi The Call of Moses Joseph Joseph and his Brethren The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt How the Bishop is to Treat the Innocent, the Guilty, and the ... Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Bunsen's Biblical Researches. The First Apology of Justin, the Martyr Resources What was a shepherd in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Shepherd of Hermas and should it be in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are the rod and staff in Psalm 23? | GotQuestions.org Shepherd: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shepherd of Prophets, Priests, Levites, and Civil Authorities Shepherd was an Abomination to the Egyptians Shepherd: A Name Given to Cyrus Shepherd: A Name Given to Jesus Shepherd: Causes the Flock to Rest Shepherd: David The, Defends his Flock Against a Lion and a Bear Shepherd: Keeps the Flocks in Folds Shepherd: Keeps the Sheep and Goats Apart Shepherd: Knows Each One of his Flock by Name Shepherd: One Who Cares for Flocks of Sheep Shepherd: The Daughters of Jethro Related Terms |
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