Topical Encyclopedia The domestic cat, a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the Felidae family, is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, its presence in the ancient Near East and its significance in various cultures during biblical times provide a context for understanding its potential role and symbolism.Historical Context Cats were domesticated in ancient Egypt, where they were revered and often associated with the goddess Bastet. Their ability to control vermin populations made them valuable in agrarian societies. While the Bible does not mention cats directly, their presence in neighboring cultures suggests that they were known to the Israelites. Symbolism and Cultural Influence In biblical times, animals often carried symbolic meanings. While the Bible does not attribute specific symbolism to cats, their characteristics—such as independence, agility, and nocturnal nature—might have been observed by biblical peoples. In a broader cultural context, cats were sometimes seen as mysterious or even mystical creatures. Biblical References to Similar Animals Though cats are not mentioned, other members of the Felidae family, such as lions, are frequently referenced in the Bible. Lions are often used symbolically to represent strength, power, and sometimes danger. For example, in 1 Peter 5:8 , it is written, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This metaphorical use of a feline creature highlights the cultural awareness of such animals. Cats in Apocryphal and Extrabiblical Texts While the canonical Bible does not mention cats, some apocryphal and extrabiblical texts from the same era may include references to them. These texts can provide additional insights into how cats were perceived in the broader cultural and religious milieu of the time. Modern Interpretations and Symbolism In contemporary Christian thought, cats are often seen as part of God's creation, reflecting His creativity and the diversity of life. While not directly mentioned in Scripture, they are appreciated for their role in the ecosystem and as companions to humans. Conclusion The absence of direct references to cats in the Bible does not diminish their historical and cultural significance in the ancient world. Understanding the broader context of animals in biblical times can enrich one's appreciation of the text and the world in which it was written. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) An animal of various species of the genera Felis and Lynx. The domestic cat is Felis domestica. The European wild cat (Felis catus) is much larger than the domestic cat. In the United States the name wild cat is commonly applied to the bay lynx (Lynx rufus) See Wild cat, and Tiger cat.2. (n.) A strong vessel with a narrow stern, projecting quarters, and deep waist. It is employed in the coal and timber trade. 3. (n.) A strong tackle used to draw an anchor up to the cathead of a ship. 4. (n.) A double tripod (for holding a plate, etc.), having six feet, of which three rest on the ground, in whatever position in is placed. 5. (n.) An old game; (a) The game of tipcat and the implement with which it is played. See Tipcat. (c) A game of ball, called, according to the number of batters, one old cat, two old cat, etc. 6. (n.) A cat o' nine tails. See below. 7. (v. t.) To bring to the cathead; as, to cat an anchor. See Anchor. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CAT(ailouros): The only mention of this animal is in Baruch 6:22. It is not mentioned in the canonical Scriptures, though Bochart (Hieroz., 862) gives "wild cats" as the equivalent of tsyim in Isaiah 13:21; Isaiah 34:14 Jeremiah 50:39 Psalm 74:19, where English Versions of the Bible gives "wild beasts of the desert." Mention is, however, made of cats, cathod, in the Welsh Bible (Isaiah 34:14). The only mention of the catta in classical Latin writers is in Martial xiii0.69. How the cat was regarded in Egypt is described in Herod. ii.66 and Rawlinson's notes. In Baruch 6:22 cats are mentioned with "bats, swallows and birds" as sitting with impunity on the images of the heathen gods which are unable to drive them off. Library The Cat came Back The Eternal Revolution The Time and Arrangement of S. Cyril's Lectures. When one at the Back of the North Wind Wanted to Know How Things ... Special Preparation for Baptism. Place of S. Cyril's Lectures. Natural Love. Additions to the Literature "The Dust of the Actual" The Task of Modern Idealists Indeed is Made Much Too Easy for them ... Thesaurus Cat... The domestic cat is Felis domestica. The European wild cat (Felis catus) is much larger than the domestic cat. In the United States ... /c/cat.htm - 8k Pi-beseth (1 Occurrence) Pibeseth (1 Occurrence) Zoology Pur (3 Occurrences) Casualties (7 Occurrences) Lick (8 Occurrences) Gods (310 Occurrences) Wild (147 Occurrences) Flea (2 Occurrences) Resources Did God create the universe? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is an omen? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about pets? | GotQuestions.org Cat: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |