Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the term "wicked" refers to individuals who live in opposition to God's commandments and moral order. The wicked are often characterized by their sinful behavior, rebellion against divine authority, and a general disposition towards evil. Throughout Scripture, the wicked are depicted as those who reject God's wisdom and pursue their own corrupt desires.
The comparison of wicked people to swine, or pigs, is a metaphorical device used in the Bible to illustrate the nature and consequences of wickedness. Pigs, in the biblical sense, are considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic Law.
Leviticus 11:7-8 states, "And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you. You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you." This designation of pigs as unclean serves as a symbolic representation of impurity and moral defilement.
In the New Testament, Jesus employs this metaphor in His teachings. In
Matthew 7:6, He warns, "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces." Here, swine are used to represent those who are incapable of appreciating the value of spiritual truths, much like the wicked who scorn divine wisdom and righteousness.
The comparison is further illustrated in the parable of the Prodigal Son (
Luke 15:11-32). The younger son, after squandering his inheritance in reckless living, finds himself in a dire situation, feeding pigs and longing to eat their food. This imagery underscores the degradation and spiritual poverty that result from a life of wickedness and rebellion against God.
Moreover,
2 Peter 2:22 draws a direct parallel between the wicked and swine: "Of them the proverbs are true: 'A dog returns to its vomit,' and, 'A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.'" This verse highlights the tendency of the wicked to revert to their sinful ways, despite any temporary attempts at reform or repentance.
In summary, the biblical comparison of wicked people to swine serves as a powerful illustration of the moral and spiritual corruption inherent in a life of sin. It emphasizes the unclean and defiled state of those who reject God's commandments and the inevitable consequences of such a lifestyle. The metaphor calls believers to discernment and caution in their interactions with the wicked, while also serving as a reminder of the transformative power of repentance and redemption through Christ.
Nave's Topical Index
Matthew 7:6Give not that which is holy to the dogs, neither cast you your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
Nave's Topical Index2 Peter 2:22
But it is happened to them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... They think it wicked to eat the flesh of swine. ... practice of the commoner sort of
the people who imitated ... and that although they find herds of swine, and droves ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm
Resources
Does God hate? If God is love, how can He hate? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is retribution theology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that judgment begins at the house of God? | GotQuestions.orgWicked: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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