The bear, a formidable creature of the wild, is mentioned several times in the Bible, often symbolizing strength, ferocity, and danger. In the ancient Near East, bears were known to inhabit the forests and mountainous regions, and their presence was both feared and respected by the people of biblical times.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 2:23-24 : One of the most notable mentions of bears in the Bible is the account of Elisha and the youths at Bethel. As Elisha was traveling, a group of youths mocked him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead!" In response, Elisha called down a curse in the name of the LORD, and two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. This incident underscores the bear's role as an instrument of divine judgment and the seriousness of mocking God's prophets.

2. Proverbs 17:12 : "Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly." This proverb highlights the danger and unpredictability of a bear, especially a mother bear separated from her cubs. The comparison emphasizes the peril of encountering a fool, suggesting that such an encounter is even more hazardous than facing an enraged bear.

3. Hosea 13:8 : "Like a bear robbed of her cubs, I will attack them and tear them open." Here, God uses the imagery of a bear to describe His fierce anger and impending judgment against Israel. The bear's ferocity serves as a metaphor for the intensity of divine retribution.

4. Daniel 7:5 : In Daniel's vision of the four beasts, the second beast resembles a bear. This bear is raised up on one side, with three ribs in its mouth, and is commanded to "Get up and gorge yourself on flesh." The bear in this vision is often interpreted as representing the Medo-Persian Empire, known for its strength and conquests.

Symbolism and Characteristics:

The bear's growl, particularly when annoyed or threatened, is emblematic of its power and potential for aggression. In biblical literature, the bear's growl can be seen as a warning of impending danger or judgment. The bear's protective nature, especially regarding its cubs, is frequently used to illustrate the intensity of God's protective and sometimes corrective actions toward His people.

The bear's presence in the Bible serves as a reminder of the natural world's untamed and sometimes perilous aspects. It also reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty over creation, using even the wildest of animals to fulfill His purposes and convey His messages.

In summary, the bear in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing both the natural world's raw power and the divine authority that governs all creation. Its growl, a sign of its annoyance and potential wrath, serves as a potent metaphor for the consequences of defying divine will.Isaiah 59:11
We roar all like bears, and mourn sore like doves: we look for judgment, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far off from us.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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