Topical Encyclopedia The domestic donkey, known scientifically as Equus africanus asinus, is a significant animal in biblical narratives and ancient Near Eastern culture. In the Bible, the donkey is often associated with themes of service, humility, and peace. It is a creature that appears frequently throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing various spiritual and practical truths.Biblical References and Symbolism The donkey is first mentioned in Genesis, where it is listed among the animals that Abram acquired in Egypt (Genesis 12:16). This early reference sets the stage for the donkey's role as a valuable asset in agrarian societies, used for transportation and carrying burdens. In the account of Balaam, the donkey is portrayed as a perceptive creature, able to see the angel of the Lord when Balaam could not. This account, found in Numbers 22:21-33, highlights the donkey's role as an instrument of divine intervention and communication. The donkey's ability to speak to Balaam underscores its unique place in God's creation and plan. The donkey also plays a crucial role in the narrative of the judges. In Judges 15:15-16, Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey to slay a thousand Philistines, demonstrating the donkey's symbolic association with strength and deliverance. Messianic Symbolism One of the most profound appearances of the donkey in the Bible is in the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which foretells the coming of the Messiah: "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 is fulfilled in the New Testament when Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, as recorded in Matthew 21:1-11. The donkey here symbolizes peace and humility, contrasting with the warhorses of earthly kings. Practical and Cultural Significance In biblical times, donkeys were essential for daily life. They were used for plowing fields, grinding grain, and transporting goods and people. The donkey's endurance and ability to navigate difficult terrain made it an invaluable asset in the ancient world. The Law of Moses includes specific instructions regarding the treatment of donkeys, reflecting their importance and the ethical considerations of their use. For example, Exodus 23:5 instructs, "If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen under its load, do not leave it there; you must help him with it." This command emphasizes compassion and responsibility towards animals, even those belonging to one's enemies. Spiritual Lessons The donkey's presence in Scripture often serves as a reminder of humility and service. In a world that often values power and prestige, the donkey's role in biblical narratives encourages believers to embrace humility and to serve others selflessly. The donkey's association with peace, as seen in the triumphal entry of Jesus, also points to the peace that Christ brings to the world. In summary, the domestic donkey in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing strength, service, humility, and peace. Its appearances in Scripture provide rich insights into God's character and His expectations for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 49:14Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The First Theban Empire The Nile and Egypt Resources I am Jewish, can I become a Christian? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org Ass: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Donkey: Domesticated used for Riding Donkey: Domesticated: Bridles For Donkey: Domesticated: Carrying Burdens Donkey: Domesticated: Drawing Chariots Donkey: Domesticated: Firstlings of Redeemed Donkey: Domesticated: Herds of Donkey: Domesticated: Jawbone of, Used by Samson With Which to Kill Philistines Donkey: Domesticated: Not to be Yoked With an Ox Donkey: Domesticated: Rest on the Sabbath the Domestic Donkey was Used for Bearing Burdens the Domestic Donkey was Used for Riding the Domestic Donkey was Used in Agriculture the Domestic Donkey was Used in Harness the Domestic Donkey was Used in War the Domestic Donkey: Fond of Ease the Domestic Donkey: Formed a Part of Patriarchal Wealth the Domestic Donkey: Governed by a Bridle the Domestic Donkey: Judges of Israel Rode on White the Domestic Donkey: Later Counted As an Ignoble Creature the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Astray, to be Brought Back to Its Owners the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Astray, to be Taken Care of Till Its Owner Appeared the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Christ Entered Jerusalem On the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Fallen Under a Burden, to be Assisted the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: First-Born of, If not Redeemed, to Have Its Neck Broken the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Not to be Coveted the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: Not to be Yoked With an Ox the Domestic Donkey: Laws Respecting: To Enjoy the Rest of the Sabbath the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: A Thousand Men Slain by Samson With a Jaw-Bone of the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: Eaten During Famine in Samaria the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: Mouth of Balaam's Opened to Speak the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: Not Torn by a Lion the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: Water Brought from the Jaw-Bone of the Domestic Donkey: Not Devoid of Instinct the Domestic Donkey: Often Fed on Vine-Leaves the Domestic Donkey: Often Taken Unlawfully by Corrupt Rulers the Domestic Donkey: Persons of Rank Rode On the Domestic Donkey: Trusty Persons Appointed to Take Care of the Domestic Donkey: Urged on With a Staff the Domestic Donkey: Women often Rode On the Domestic Donkey: Young, Most Valued for Labour the Wild Donkey: Brays when Hungry the Wild Donkey: Despises his Pursuers the Wild Donkey: Fond of Liberty the Wild Donkey: Inhabits Wild and Solitary Places the Wild Donkey: Intractableness of Natural Man the Wild Donkey: Israel in Their Love of Idols the Wild Donkey: Ranges the Mountains for Food the Wild Donkey: Suffers in Time of Scarcity the Wild Donkey: Supported by God the Wild Donkey: The Assyrian Power the Wild Donkey: The Ishmaelites (Hebrew) the Wild Donkey: The Wicked in Their Pursuit of Sin Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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