The strutting rooster, while not directly mentioned in the Bible, serves as a symbol of pride and arrogance, which are themes addressed throughout Scripture. The rooster, known for its confident and boastful demeanor, can be seen as a metaphor for human pride and the dangers associated with it.

Symbolism of Pride:

The Bible frequently warns against pride, which is often depicted as a sin that leads to downfall. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." The strutting rooster, with its self-assured posture, can be likened to the haughty spirit that the Scriptures caution against. This imagery serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the perils of self-exaltation.

Rooster in Biblical Context:

While the strutting rooster itself is not explicitly mentioned, the rooster does appear in the New Testament in the context of Peter's denial of Jesus. In Matthew 26:34 , Jesus foretells, "Truly I tell you, this very night before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." The rooster's crow serves as a pivotal moment of realization and repentance for Peter, highlighting the themes of human weakness and the need for divine grace.

Lessons from Nature:

The Bible often uses animals and nature to teach spiritual lessons. In Job 12:7-10 , it is written, "But ask the animals, and they will instruct you; ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you... In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind." The strutting rooster, as part of God's creation, can be seen as a tool for reflection on human behavior, encouraging believers to examine their own hearts for pride and to seek humility.

Humility and Servanthood:

The teachings of Jesus emphasize humility and servanthood as virtues to be cultivated. In Matthew 23:12 , Jesus declares, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." The strutting rooster, with its ostentatious display, contrasts with the biblical call to humility, serving as a visual reminder of the values that followers of Christ are encouraged to embody.

Conclusion:

The strutting rooster, while not a direct biblical reference, serves as a powerful symbol of pride and the biblical teachings that warn against it. Through the lens of Scripture, believers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives, seeking humility and aligning themselves with the teachings of Christ.