Topical Bible: The Goat: Bashan Celebrated For

◄ The Goat: Bashan Celebrated For ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the region of Bashan was renowned for its fertile land and abundant livestock, particularly its goats. Bashan, located east of the Jordan River, was a territory known for its rich pastures and agricultural productivity. The goats of Bashan are often mentioned in the context of the region's prosperity and the quality of its livestock.

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 22:12 : "Many bulls surround me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle me." While this verse specifically mentions bulls, it highlights the strength and prominence of Bashan's livestock, which would have included goats. The reference to the "strong bulls of Bashan" serves as a metaphor for formidable adversaries, indicating the high regard for the animals of this region.

2. Ezekiel 39:18 : "You will eat the flesh of mighty men and drink the blood of the princes of the earth as if they were rams and lambs, goats and bulls—all of them fattened animals from Bashan." This passage underscores the reputation of Bashan's animals as being well-fed and robust, suitable for sacrificial offerings and feasts.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Bashan's reputation for its goats and other livestock is rooted in its geographical and climatic conditions. The region's fertile soil and ample rainfall made it an ideal location for raising animals. The goats of Bashan were likely prized for their milk, meat, and hides, contributing to the area's economic wealth and sustenance.

In ancient Israelite society, goats held significant value. They were used for various purposes, including sacrifices, clothing, and food. The mention of Bashan's goats in the Bible reflects the broader cultural and economic importance of livestock in the ancient Near East.

Symbolism and Theological Significance:

The goats of Bashan, like other livestock from the region, symbolize abundance and strength. In biblical literature, animals often serve as metaphors for human characteristics or divine attributes. The robust and well-nourished animals of Bashan can be seen as symbols of God's provision and the blessings bestowed upon the land.

Furthermore, the imagery of goats and other livestock in prophetic and poetic texts often conveys messages of judgment or deliverance. The strength and vitality of Bashan's animals can represent both the power of adversaries and the richness of God's creation.

In summary, the goats of Bashan are emblematic of the region's agricultural prosperity and the broader biblical themes of abundance, strength, and divine blessing. The references to Bashan's livestock in Scripture highlight the cultural and theological significance of these animals in the biblical narrative.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 32:14
Butter of cows, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and you did drink the pure blood of the grape.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... such as the ass, buffalo, sheep, goat, dog, and ... were treatises compiled by the most
celebrated adepts in ... and drieth up all the rivers: Bashan languisheth, and ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm