In the biblical context, the domestic donkey holds a significant place not only as a beast of burden but also as a creature under the care and provision of God's laws. The Sabbath, a day of rest instituted by God, extends its blessings beyond human beings to include animals, emphasizing the compassionate and holistic nature of divine commandments.

Sabbath Rest for Animals:

The commandment to observe the Sabbath is found in the Ten Commandments, where God instructs His people to rest on the seventh day. This rest is not limited to humans but is also mandated for animals, including the domestic donkey. In Exodus 20:10 , it is written: "But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God; on it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates."

This passage highlights the inclusion of livestock, such as donkeys, in the Sabbath rest. The commandment underscores the principle that all of creation is to partake in the rest and refreshment that the Sabbath provides. The donkey, as a common working animal in ancient Israel, would have been a primary beneficiary of this law, ensuring that it too could enjoy a reprieve from labor.

Further Emphasis in Deuteronomy:

The book of Deuteronomy reiterates and expands upon the Sabbath commandment, again including animals in the observance of rest. Deuteronomy 5:14 states: "But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God, on which you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your ox or donkey or any of your livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates—so that your manservant and maidservant may rest as you do."

Here, the donkey is specifically mentioned, reinforcing its inclusion in the Sabbath rest. This repetition serves to remind the Israelites of their responsibility to care for their animals, recognizing them as part of God's creation deserving of rest and care.

Theological Implications:

The inclusion of the donkey in the Sabbath rest reflects a broader theological principle of stewardship and compassion. It illustrates the biblical view that God's laws are designed to promote the well-being of all His creation. The Sabbath rest for animals like the donkey is a testament to the value and dignity that God places on all living creatures.

In summary, the biblical laws concerning the Sabbath rest for the domestic donkey reveal a divine concern for the welfare of animals. These laws serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all creation and the responsibility of humans to extend God's compassion and care to every living being.Deuteronomy 5:14
But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD your God: in it you shall not do any work, you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your ox, nor your ass, nor any of your cattle, nor your stranger that is within your gates; that your manservant and your maidservant may rest as well as you.
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