Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the term "he-sheep" refers to a male sheep, often called a ram. The he-sheep holds significant symbolic and practical importance throughout the Bible, serving as a representation of strength, leadership, and sacrifice. Symbolism and Sacrifice The he-sheep is frequently associated with sacrificial offerings in the Old Testament. In the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites, rams were often used as burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings. The ram's role in sacrifice is first notably seen in the account of Abraham and Isaac. In Genesis 22:13 , after God tests Abraham's faith, a ram is provided as a substitute for Isaac: "Then Abraham looked up and saw behind him a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. So he went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son." The ram's significance as a sacrificial animal underscores the themes of substitution and atonement, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Leadership and Authority In addition to its sacrificial role, the he-sheep is emblematic of leadership and authority. Rams are often seen as leaders of the flock, guiding and protecting the sheep. This imagery is used in the Bible to describe leaders and rulers. For example, in Ezekiel 34:17 , God speaks of judging between the rams and the goats, symbolizing His discernment between true and false leaders: "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Behold, I Myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep.'" Cultural and Economic Importance In ancient Israelite society, he-sheep were valuable assets, contributing to the economy and daily life. They provided wool, meat, and were integral to agricultural practices. The wealth of a person was often measured by the size of their flocks, including the number of rams they possessed. This is evident in the account of Job, who is described as having large flocks, including many rams, as a sign of his prosperity and God's blessing (Job 42:12). Prophetic Imagery The he-sheep also appears in prophetic literature, where it is used to convey messages of judgment and redemption. In Daniel 8, the vision of the ram with two horns represents the Medo-Persian Empire, illustrating the power and reach of this kingdom. The imagery of the ram in prophecy often serves to communicate God's sovereignty over nations and His ultimate plan for history. In summary, the he-sheep in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing sacrifice, leadership, and divine provision. Its presence in Scripture highlights key theological themes and reflects the cultural and economic realities of the biblical world. Concordance He-sheep (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 34:17 Thesaurus He-sheep (1 Occurrence)He-sheep. Heshbon, He-sheep. Heshmon . Multi-Version Concordance He-sheep (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 34:17 And as for you ... /h/he-sheep.htm - 6k Heshmon (1 Occurrence) Heshbon (37 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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