Topical Bible: The Ox: Lowing of, Alluded To

◄ The Ox: Lowing of, Alluded To ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The ox, a significant animal in biblical times, is often mentioned in Scripture for its role in agriculture, sacrifice, and symbolism. The lowing of the ox, a distinct sound made by these animals, is alluded to in various passages, reflecting both literal and metaphorical meanings.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Samuel 15:14 : "But Samuel replied, 'Then what is this bleating of sheep in my ears, and what is this lowing of cattle that I hear?'" In this passage, the lowing of the oxen is a sign of disobedience. King Saul had failed to fully carry out God's command to destroy the Amalekites and their livestock. The sound of the oxen serves as evidence of Saul's incomplete obedience, highlighting the importance of following divine instructions fully.

2. Job 6:5 : "Does a wild donkey bray over fresh grass, or an ox low over its fodder?" Here, the lowing of the ox is used metaphorically to illustrate contentment. Just as an ox does not low when it has sufficient food, Job implies that he would not complain if he were not in distress. This comparison underscores the natural response of creatures to their circumstances, drawing a parallel to human reactions to suffering and provision.

3. Isaiah 1:3 : "The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s manger, but Israel does not know; My people do not understand." The lowing of the ox is indirectly referenced through the animal's recognition of its master. This passage uses the behavior of the ox to contrast the faithfulness and understanding of animals with the spiritual ignorance of Israel. The ox's ability to recognize its owner serves as a rebuke to the people of Israel, who have failed to acknowledge and follow their God.

Symbolism and Cultural Context:

In biblical culture, the ox was a valuable asset, essential for plowing fields and performing heavy labor. Its lowing was a familiar sound in agrarian life, often associated with the presence and activity of these powerful animals. The ox's lowing could signify various states, such as hunger, contentment, or distress, depending on the context.

The ox also held sacrificial significance, being one of the animals acceptable for offerings to God. Its presence in sacrificial rites further imbued the ox with spiritual symbolism, representing strength, service, and submission to divine will.

Theological Implications:

The allusions to the lowing of the ox in Scripture often carry deeper theological meanings. They serve as reminders of obedience, contentment, and recognition of divine authority. The ox's behavior is used to teach lessons about human conduct, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's actions with God's commands and acknowledging His provision and sovereignty.

In summary, the lowing of the ox, while a simple and natural sound, is rich with meaning in the biblical narrative. It serves as a tool for instruction, reflection, and spiritual insight, illustrating the profound connections between the natural world and divine truth.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 15:14
And Samuel said, What means then this bleating of the sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 6:5
Does the wild ass bray when he has grass? or lows the ox over his fodder?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of his sister Dinah by a massacre of the Shechemites, and the dispersion alluded
to in ... of Anath, who "smote of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox-goad ...
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