Topical Bible: Swine: Described: Fierce and Ungenerous

◄ Swine: Described: Fierce and Ungenerous ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Swine, commonly referred to as pigs, hold a significant place in biblical literature, often symbolizing uncleanness and moral degradation. The Bible presents swine as creatures that embody fierceness and a lack of generosity, serving as a metaphor for spiritual and moral lessons.

Fierce Nature

The fierce nature of swine is vividly illustrated in the New Testament account of the Gadarene demoniacs. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus encounters two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs, so violent that no one could pass that way. The demons, recognizing Jesus, plead with Him, saying, "If You drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs" (Matthew 8:31). Jesus consents, and the demons enter the swine, causing the entire herd to rush down the steep bank into the sea and perish in the waters (Matthew 8:32). This dramatic event underscores the destructive and fierce nature of swine when under demonic influence, serving as a powerful illustration of spiritual warfare and the authority of Christ over evil.

Ungenerous Disposition

Swine are also depicted as ungenerous, particularly in their association with uncleanliness and disregard for sacred things. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns His followers, "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces" (Matthew 7:6). This admonition highlights the swine's lack of appreciation for value and sanctity, symbolizing those who are spiritually unreceptive and hostile to the truths of the Gospel. The swine's ungenerous nature is further emphasized by their inability to recognize or respect the preciousness of what is offered to them.

Cultural and Religious Context

In the Old Testament, swine are classified among the unclean animals that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. 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 reflects the broader Levitical laws concerning purity and holiness, setting the Israelites apart from surrounding nations. The swine's status as unclean reinforces its symbolic representation of spiritual impurity and moral corruption.

Symbolism in Proverbs

The Book of Proverbs also employs the imagery of swine to convey moral lessons. Proverbs 11:22 states, "Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion." This vivid metaphor contrasts the outward appearance of beauty with the inner reality of folly, using the swine's ungenerous nature to illustrate the futility of external adornment without inner virtue.

In summary, the biblical portrayal of swine as fierce and ungenerous serves as a powerful symbol of spiritual and moral truths. Through various scriptural accounts and teachings, swine are depicted as embodying uncleanness, destruction, and a lack of appreciation for what is holy, providing believers with enduring lessons on the nature of sin and the call to holiness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 7:6
Give not that which is holy to the dogs, neither cast you your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook