Topical Bible: Swine: Jewels in the Nose of

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In biblical literature, the imagery of a jewel in the nose of a swine is a vivid metaphor used to convey the incongruity and futility of adorning something inherently unworthy or unclean. This metaphor is found in the book of Proverbs, which is part of the wisdom literature in the Old Testament. The specific verse that employs this imagery is Proverbs 11:22, which states: "Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion" .

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israelite culture, swine were considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 11:7-8 and Deuteronomy 14:8 explicitly prohibit the consumption of pork, as pigs do not chew the cud and have cloven hooves, thus failing to meet the criteria for clean animals. The pig, therefore, became a symbol of impurity and was often associated with Gentile practices, which were viewed as contrary to the covenantal laws given to Israel.

The use of a gold ring, a symbol of wealth, beauty, and value, in the snout of a pig, creates a stark contrast. The metaphor highlights the absurdity of placing something precious in a context where it is not only inappropriate but also devalued. This imagery would have resonated strongly with an ancient audience familiar with the cultural and religious significance of both swine and gold.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the proverb underscores the importance of inner virtue over outward appearance. The comparison to a "beautiful woman who lacks discretion" suggests that external beauty, when not accompanied by wisdom and moral integrity, is as misplaced as a gold ring in a pig's snout. This reflects a broader biblical theme that values character and godliness over superficial attributes. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the inner qualities of the heart over external adornment (1 Peter 3:3-4).

Moral and Ethical Lessons

From a moral and ethical standpoint, the proverb serves as a caution against valuing external appearances over inner character. It warns against the folly of investing in superficial beauty or adornment while neglecting the cultivation of wisdom and discretion. This teaching aligns with the biblical call to pursue righteousness and to develop a heart that reflects God's values.

Application in Christian Life

For Christians, this proverb serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual growth and character development. It encourages believers to seek wisdom and discretion, qualities that are esteemed by God, rather than focusing solely on outward appearances. The metaphor of the jewel in the swine's nose challenges individuals to evaluate where they place their value and to ensure that their lives reflect the beauty of holiness and integrity.

Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 11:22
As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... eat human flesh, and that although they find herds of swine, and droves of ... the
versatility of actors, the figure of women, in splendid jewels, dress, silver ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

A Treatise of the Fear of God;
... These will live like dogs and swine in the house; they pray not, they watch not
their hearts, they pull not their hands out of their bosoms to work, they do ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a treatise of the fear.htm

Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm

The Holy War,
... Mansoul trampled upon things Divine, And wallowed in filth as doth a swine; When
she ... of the gates were these, Ear-gate, Eye-gate, Mouth-gate, Nose-gate, and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm