The term "swine" in the Bible often refers to domesticated pigs, but it can also encompass wild boars, which are a type of wild swine. These animals are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, primarily in relation to their unclean status according to Mosaic Law.

Biblical References and Symbolism

In the Old Testament, swine are classified as unclean animals. Leviticus 11:7-8 states, "And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you. You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you." This prohibition underscores the swine's symbolic representation of impurity and separation from the holiness required of God's people.

The wild boar is specifically mentioned in Psalm 80:13 , which says, "The boar from the forest ravages it, and the creatures of the field feed upon it." Here, the wild boar is depicted as a destructive force, symbolizing the enemies of Israel who ravage the vineyard, a metaphor for the nation itself. This imagery highlights the threat posed by external forces and the need for divine protection and restoration.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, wild boars were common in the forests and thickets. They were known for their strength and ferocity, often posing a threat to agriculture and human settlements. The Israelites, adhering to the dietary laws given by God, would have avoided both domesticated pigs and wild boars, reinforcing their distinct identity as a people set apart.

The presence of wild boars in biblical lands is consistent with archaeological findings and historical records, which indicate that these animals were prevalent in the region. Their mention in Scripture serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenantal purity amidst surrounding pagan practices.

Theological Implications

The prohibition against swine, including wild boars, is part of the broader Levitical code that emphasizes holiness and separation from defilement. This distinction between clean and unclean animals is a tangible expression of the spiritual purity required by God. The wild boar, as a symbol of destruction and impurity, serves as a metaphor for the spiritual dangers that threaten the covenant community.

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of purity and defilement, shifting the focus from external observances to the condition of the heart. In Mark 7:18-19 , He declares, "Are you still so dull? Do you not see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and then it is eliminated?" This teaching reorients the understanding of purity, emphasizing internal righteousness over ritualistic adherence.

Conclusion

While the wild boar is not a central figure in biblical narratives, its mention serves as a powerful symbol of impurity and destruction. The biblical treatment of swine, both domesticated and wild, reflects the broader theological themes of holiness, separation, and the transformative power of God's covenant with His people.Psalm 80:13
The boar out of the wood does waste it, and the wild beast of the field does devour it.
Nave's Topical Index

Psalm LXXX.
... what is a boar but a savage swine, a furious swine? ... all the trees of the woods."
[3767] "The boar from the ... hath laid her waste; and a singular wild beast hath ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxx.htm

Thanksgiving to God for Deliverance from the Evils Expected Owing ...
... in their own body; thus, the ox has his horns; the wild boar his tusks; the ... Thus
the peacock delights; and fowls and swine nourish; sheep and goats provide us ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily xi thanksgiving to god.htm

That Evening Vergilius Went to Feast with the Young Herodian ...
... added that he would rather be the swine of Antipater ... that a marriage was impossible;
but the wild heart of ... Slaves were kept busy bringing boar's head and sow's ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/bacheller/vergilius/chapter 4 that evening vergilius.htm

Philippians ii. 8-May
... of the wood doth ravage it, and the wild beasts of ... here nought is said of them, but
"the boar," and "the ... dared not to enter into the herd of swine, except by ...
/.../homily vi philippians ii 8-may.htm

The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea
... They take no wife, they give birth to no child,"they know neither compassion nor
kindness,"they listen to no prayer nor supplication."As wild horses they ...
/.../chapter iithe temples and the.htm

Against vigilantius.
... and the birds of Stymphalus, the Erymanthian boar and the ... there is nothing to separate
us from swine, nothing wherein we ... as on a level with the wild fancies of ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against vigilantius.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... I know it is ill puddling in the cockatrice's den, and that they run hazards
that hunt the wild boar. The man also that writeth ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

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Swine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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