The domestic donkey, a humble yet significant animal in biblical times, served various purposes, including as a means of transportation. In the ancient Near East, donkeys were highly valued for their endurance, strength, and ability to navigate difficult terrain, making them an essential asset for travel and trade.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 22:3 · The first mention of a donkey used for riding is found in the account of Abraham. When God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac, Abraham "got up early the next morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his servants and his son Isaac" . This passage highlights the donkey's role in facilitating long journeys.

2. Numbers 22:21-22 · Balaam's journey on a donkey is another notable instance. Balaam "got up in the morning, saddled his donkey, and went with the princes of Moab" . This narrative underscores the donkey's use as a reliable mode of transport for individuals of various social standings.

3. Judges 5:10 · In the Song of Deborah, the leaders of Israel are called to "tell of it, you who ride on white donkeys, sitting on saddle blankets" . This reference indicates that donkeys were not only practical but also associated with status and leadership.

4. 1 Samuel 25:20 · Abigail's encounter with David illustrates the donkey's role in urgent travel. Abigail "was riding her donkey and coming down a mountain ravine" to meet David and prevent bloodshed . Her swift action, facilitated by the donkey, was crucial in averting disaster.

5. 2 Samuel 16:1-2 · When David fled from Absalom, Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, brought donkeys for David's household to ride. Ziba said, "The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride" . This provision highlights the donkey's importance in royal and emergency contexts.

6. Zechariah 9:9 · The prophetic vision of the Messiah riding a donkey is a profound symbol of humility and peace. "Behold, your King is coming to you; He is 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, emphasizing the donkey's role in messianic expectation.

7. Matthew 21:1-7 · The fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy is vividly depicted in the New Testament when Jesus enters Jerusalem. Jesus instructs His disciples to find a donkey and a colt, saying, "If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them" . Jesus' choice to ride a donkey into Jerusalem symbolizes His peaceful mission and contrasts with the warlike imagery of a conquering king on a horse.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In biblical times, donkeys were more than mere beasts of burden; they were integral to daily life and commerce. Their ability to carry heavy loads and travel long distances made them indispensable for traders and travelers. The donkey's association with peace and humility, as seen in the messianic prophecy, further underscores its symbolic significance in Scripture.

The use of donkeys for riding is a testament to their versatility and the vital role they played in the biblical narrative. From patriarchs to prophets, and ultimately to the Messiah, the donkey is woven into the fabric of biblical history, serving as a vehicle for God's unfolding plan.Genesis 22:3
And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and split the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went to the place of which God had told him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 22:21
And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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

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