Topical Bible: the Domestic Donkey was Used for Bearing Burdens

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Topical Encyclopedia

The domestic donkey, a humble yet essential creature in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a beast of burden. Its role in daily life and its symbolic significance are woven throughout the biblical narrative, illustrating its importance in ancient Near Eastern culture.

Biblical References and Usage

The donkey is first introduced in the Bible as a domesticated animal used for carrying loads and facilitating travel. In Genesis 22:3, Abraham saddles his donkey as he prepares to journey to the land of Moriah, demonstrating the animal's role in transportation. The donkey's ability to bear burdens is further highlighted in Genesis 42:26, where Joseph's brothers load their donkeys with grain to carry back to Canaan during a time of famine.

In the Mosaic Law, the donkey is recognized as a valuable asset. Exodus 23:5 instructs, "If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help them with it." This command underscores the donkey's role in bearing burdens and the moral obligation to assist in its care, even when owned by an adversary.

Symbolism and Significance

The donkey's significance extends beyond its practical use. It often symbolizes humility and service. In Zechariah 9:9, the prophecy of the Messiah riding on a donkey into Jerusalem is fulfilled in the New Testament, as recorded in Matthew 21:5: "Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See, your King comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'" This imagery contrasts the donkey with the horse, which was typically associated with war and conquest, highlighting the peaceful and humble nature of Christ's kingship.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, donkeys were indispensable for their endurance and ability to navigate difficult terrain. They were more affordable and easier to maintain than horses, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population. This accessibility is reflected in the biblical narrative, where donkeys are owned by patriarchs, prophets, and common people alike.

The donkey's role in bearing burdens is not only a testament to its physical capabilities but also a reflection of its integral place in the daily life and economy of biblical societies. Its presence in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the value of humility, service, and the fulfillment of God's promises through seemingly modest means.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 42:26
And they laded their asses with the corn, and departed there.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 25:18
Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Jewish views on Trade, Tradesmen, and Trades' Guilds
... In his name, Rabbi Jehudah said: Donkey-drivers are mostly ... been, is full of the praises
of domestic industry ... and when it members went abroad they used to carry ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 11 jewish views on.htm

The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... were quite tame and were used only for domestic work. ... it surprised me to see that
they never used the bowls ... In the day-time the donkey is generally outside at ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm