Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, shepherds hold a significant role, particularly within the context of the patriarchal accounts in Genesis. The occupation of shepherding is often associated with the Hebrew patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and his sons. However, this profession is notably described as an "abomination" to the Egyptians, a cultural and religious sentiment that plays a crucial role in the account of Joseph and his family in Egypt.Biblical Context The primary reference to shepherds being an abomination to the Egyptians is found in the book of Genesis. When Joseph, who had risen to a position of power in Egypt, prepared to bring his family to live in the land of Goshen, he instructed his brothers on how to present themselves to Pharaoh. Joseph advised them to emphasize their occupation as shepherds: "When Pharaoh calls you and asks, ‘What is your occupation?’ 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.” (Genesis 46:33-34) This passage highlights the cultural divide between the Egyptians and the Hebrews, with shepherding being a profession looked down upon by the Egyptians. Cultural and Religious Significance The Egyptians' disdain for shepherds can be attributed to several factors, both cultural and religious. In ancient Egypt, the society was highly stratified, and occupations were often associated with social status. The Egyptians, who were primarily an agrarian society, may have viewed the nomadic lifestyle of shepherds as primitive and uncivilized. Additionally, the Egyptians had a complex religious system with a pantheon of gods, and their religious practices and beliefs may have conflicted with the pastoral lifestyle and the deities associated with shepherding. The aversion to shepherds also underscores the distinct identity of the Israelites. By settling in Goshen, a region suitable for livestock, the Israelites were able to maintain their cultural and religious practices without assimilating into Egyptian society. This separation allowed them to preserve their identity as God's chosen people, distinct from the surrounding nations. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the Egyptians' view of shepherds as an abomination serves to highlight the theme of God's providence and sovereignty. Despite the Egyptians' disdain, God used Joseph's position in Egypt to provide for and protect the Israelites during a time of famine. The choice of Goshen as a dwelling place ensured that the Israelites could thrive and multiply, setting the stage for the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants. Furthermore, the motif of shepherding is significant throughout the Bible, with God Himself often depicted as a shepherd caring for His flock. This imagery is seen in passages such as Psalm 23, where David declares, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." The contrast between the Egyptians' view and the biblical portrayal of shepherds underscores the value God places on those who care for His people. Conclusion The biblical account of shepherds as an abomination to the Egyptians provides insight into the cultural and religious dynamics of the time. It also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people and the enduring significance of the shepherd motif in Scripture. Torrey's Topical Textbook 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Chapter xlvi The Shepherd of Our Souls. Joseph and his Brethren How the Bishop is to Treat the Innocent, the Guilty, and the ... The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Bunsen's Biblical Researches. the Legendary History of Egypt The First Theban Empire Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Resources Why did Jesus tell Peter to "feed my sheep" in John 21? | GotQuestions.orgIs the little drummer boy in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the Shepherding Movement? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shepherds of Christ As the Good Shepherd Shepherds of God As Leader of Israel Shepherds of Kings As the Leaders of the People Shepherds of Ministers of the Gospel Shepherds: (Ignorant and Foolish) of Bad Ministers Shepherds: (Searching out Straying Sheep) Christ Seeking the Lost Shepherds: (Their Care and Tenderness) Tenderness of Christ Shepherds: An Abomination to the Egyptians Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Attending Them when Sick Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Defending Them when Attacked by Wild Beasts Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Going Before and Leading Them Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Knowing Them Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Numbering Them when They Return from Pasture Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Searching Them out when Lost and Straying Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Seeking out Good Pasture for Them Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Tenderness to the Ewes in Lamb, and to the Young Shepherds: Care of the Sheep By, Exhibited in Watching Over Them by Night Shepherds: Carried a Staff or Rod Shepherds: Dwelt in Tents While Tending Their Flocks Shepherds: had Hired Keepers Under Them Shepherds: Members of the Family Both Male and Female Acted As Shepherds: The Unfaithfulness of Hireling, Alluded To Shepherds: Usually Carried a Scrip or Bag Related Terms |
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