Topical Encyclopedia Sheep hold a significant place in biblical texts, both as a symbol and as a practical resource for the people of Israel. They are frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, reflecting their importance in the agrarian society of ancient Israel.Clean Animal In the dietary laws given to the Israelites, sheep are classified as clean animals. According to Leviticus 11:3, "You may eat any animal that has a split hoof completely divided and that chews the cud." Sheep meet these criteria, making them permissible for consumption under Mosaic Law. This classification underscores their role not only as a source of food but also as an acceptable offering in religious practices. Sacrificial Use Sheep were commonly used in sacrificial offerings, which were central to the worship practices of the Israelites. The Passover lamb, as described in Exodus 12:3-11, is one of the most significant examples. Each household was instructed to select a lamb without blemish, symbolizing purity and foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29). The sacrificial system, including the use of sheep, pointed to the need for atonement and the coming of a perfect sacrifice. Symbolism Sheep are often used symbolically in the Bible to represent God's people. Psalm 23:1 famously begins, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want," illustrating the relationship between God and His followers as one of a shepherd caring for his sheep. This imagery is further developed in the New Testament, where Jesus refers to Himself as the "Good Shepherd" (John 10:11), emphasizing His role in guiding and protecting His flock. Economic and Nutritional Value Beyond their religious significance, sheep were a vital part of the economy and daily life in biblical times. They provided wool for clothing, milk for nourishment, and meat for sustenance. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were often described as wealthy in part due to their large flocks (Genesis 13:2, 26:14, 30:43). The abundance of sheep was a sign of prosperity and God's blessing. Sheep as Food Sheep were a staple in the diet of the Israelites. The meat, known as mutton or lamb, was consumed regularly, especially during feasts and celebrations. The preparation and consumption of sheep were governed by the dietary laws, ensuring that the meat was handled in a manner that was both healthful and ceremonially clean. In summary, sheep are depicted in the Bible as clean animals, suitable for both consumption and sacrifice. They serve as a powerful symbol of God's care and provision, while also playing a crucial role in the economy and sustenance of the people of Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 14:4These are the beasts which you shall eat: the ox, the sheep, and the goat, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Clean and the Unclean That Evil Comes of Sloth, and virtue from Diligence, and that ... Concerning the Famine that Happened in Judea and Syria; and How ... Whether a Suitable Cause Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies which ... Beasts Similarly Subject to the Law of Mutation. To Urban vi The Lord Our Shepherd Sin Slain Faustus Avows his Disbelief in the Old Testament and his Disregard ... Conclusion. Clue to the Error of the Jews. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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