Topical Bible: the Domestic Donkey: Formed a Part of Patriarchal Wealth

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Topical Encyclopedia

The domestic donkey, known for its resilience and utility, holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, particularly within the context of patriarchal wealth. In the ancient Near East, donkeys were indispensable assets, serving as beasts of burden, modes of transportation, and symbols of wealth and status.

Biblical References and Significance

The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, are often depicted as possessing large herds of livestock, including donkeys, which were integral to their wealth. In Genesis 12:16, Pharaoh rewards Abram with livestock, including donkeys, as part of his wealth: "He treated Abram well for her sake, and Abram acquired sheep and cattle, male and female donkeys, menservants and maidservants, and camels" . This passage highlights the donkey's role as a valuable commodity in the patriarchal economy.

Similarly, in Genesis 24:35, the servant of Abraham recounts the blessings bestowed upon his master, stating, "The LORD has greatly blessed my master, and he has become rich. He has given him sheep and cattle, silver and gold, menservants and maidservants, camels and donkeys" . Here, donkeys are listed alongside other forms of wealth, underscoring their importance.

Role in Daily Life and Economy

Donkeys were essential for transportation and carrying goods, making them vital for the nomadic lifestyle of the patriarchs. In Genesis 22:3, when Abraham prepares to sacrifice Isaac, he "saddled his donkey" , indicating the donkey's role in travel and religious observance. The donkey's ability to navigate difficult terrain made it an invaluable asset for journeys across the rugged landscapes of the ancient Near East.

In addition to their practical uses, donkeys also served as a measure of wealth and social standing. Job, a man of great wealth and piety, is described as having a substantial number of donkeys. In Job 1:3, it is noted, "He owned 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and he had a large number of servants. He was the greatest man among all the people of the East" . The inclusion of donkeys in this inventory of wealth highlights their economic and social significance.

Symbolism and Cultural Context

The donkey also carries symbolic meaning within the biblical text. It is often associated with humility and service, contrasting with the horse, which symbolizes war and conquest. This symbolism is evident in the prophetic imagery of the Messiah's entry into Jerusalem, as described in Zechariah 9:9: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey" . This prophecy, fulfilled in the New Testament, underscores the donkey's role as a symbol of peace and humility.

Conclusion

The domestic donkey's presence in the biblical narrative as part of patriarchal wealth reflects its multifaceted role in ancient society. As a practical asset, a measure of wealth, and a symbol of humility, the donkey occupies a unique and enduring place in the biblical tradition.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 12:16
And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 30:43
And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 1:3
His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 42:12
So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses.
Torrey's Topical Textbook