Topical Bible: Swine: Described: Destructive to Agriculture

◄ Swine: Described: Destructive to Agriculture ►

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Swine, commonly referred to as pigs, hold a significant place in biblical texts, often symbolizing uncleanliness and moral degradation. In the context of agriculture, swine are depicted as destructive creatures, capable of causing substantial damage to crops and farmland.

The Bible provides several references to swine, highlighting their nature and the implications of their presence in agricultural settings. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus uses the metaphor of swine to illustrate the futility of offering wisdom to those who cannot appreciate it: "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces" (Matthew 7:6). This passage underscores the destructive tendencies of swine, emphasizing their potential to ruin valuable resources.

In the Old Testament, swine are classified among the unclean animals, forbidden for consumption by the Israelites. Leviticus 11:7-8 states, "And the pig, though it has a split 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 reflects the broader cultural and religious view of swine as impure and detrimental, extending beyond dietary laws to encompass their impact on the land.

The destructive nature of swine is further illustrated in the account of the Gadarene demoniacs, where a herd of pigs is driven into the sea, resulting in their destruction (Matthew 8:28-32). This narrative not only highlights the spiritual symbolism of swine but also serves as a tangible example of their potential to cause chaos and devastation.

In agricultural terms, swine are known for their rooting behavior, which can lead to the uprooting of plants and the degradation of soil structure. Their presence in fields can result in significant crop loss and soil erosion, posing a threat to the livelihood of farmers. The biblical portrayal of swine as destructive aligns with these practical concerns, reinforcing the view of swine as a menace to agricultural productivity.

Throughout Scripture, swine are consistently associated with negative attributes, both spiritually and physically. Their depiction as destructive to agriculture serves as a reminder of the broader implications of their presence, extending beyond the immediate physical damage to encompass spiritual and moral considerations.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 80:13
The boar out of the wood does waste it, and the wild beast of the field does devour it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... and that although they find herds of swine, and droves ... way of satirizing voluptuous
men, he described himself as ... For nothing is so destructive to the mind as a ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea
... The area described by these cities was often very ... and Ninib were the patrons of
agriculture and protectors ... Nergal became the feverish and destructive summer sun ...
/.../chapter iithe temples and the.htm