Topical Bible: The Ox: Includes The: Cow

◄ The Ox: Includes The: Cow ►

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Introduction

The ox, along with the cow, holds significant importance in biblical texts, symbolizing strength, service, and provision. These animals are frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, reflecting their integral role in the agrarian society of ancient Israel. The ox and cow are not only valued for their physical contributions to agriculture but also carry symbolic meanings in various scriptural contexts.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Creation and Provision: In the creation narrative, God provides animals for the sustenance and service of humanity. The ox and cow, as domesticated animals, are part of this divine provision. Genesis 1:24-25 states, "And God said, 'Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind.' And it was so."

2. Agricultural Role: The ox is primarily associated with agricultural labor. It is depicted as a beast of burden, essential for plowing fields and threshing grain. Deuteronomy 25:4 commands, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain," highlighting the animal's role in food production and the ethical treatment it deserves.

3. Sacrificial System: In the Levitical sacrificial system, oxen and cows were among the animals offered to God. Leviticus 1:3 specifies, "If one's offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he is to offer an unblemished male." The offering of oxen symbolized atonement and dedication to God, reflecting their value and purity.

4. Symbol of Strength and Service: The ox is often used metaphorically to represent strength and service. In Proverbs 14:4 , it is written, "Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but an abundant harvest comes through the strength of the ox." This proverb underscores the ox's role in productivity and prosperity.

5. Covenantal Imagery: The ox is also used in covenantal imagery. In the vision of Ezekiel, the ox is one of the four living creatures, symbolizing strength and endurance (Ezekiel 1:10). This imagery is echoed in the book of Revelation, where the ox represents one of the four living beings around the throne of God (Revelation 4:7).

6. Moral and Ethical Teachings: The treatment of oxen and cows in biblical law reflects broader ethical principles. The commandment to rest on the Sabbath extends to animals, including oxen, emphasizing compassion and rest for all creation (Exodus 20:10).

7. Judgment and Restoration: In prophetic literature, the ox is sometimes used to depict judgment and restoration. Isaiah 1:3 states, "The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master's manger, but Israel does not know; My people do not understand." Here, the ox's recognition of its master serves as a rebuke to Israel's unfaithfulness.

Conclusion

The ox and cow are deeply woven into the fabric of biblical narrative and law, serving as symbols of strength, service, and divine provision. Their presence in scripture underscores the interconnectedness of creation and the ethical responsibilities of humanity towards animals. Through their roles in agriculture, sacrifice, and symbolism, the ox and cow reflect the broader themes of stewardship, worship, and covenant relationship with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 18:17
But the firstling of a cow, or the firstling of a sheep, or the firstling of a goat, you shall not redeem; they are holy: you shall sprinkle their blood on the altar, and shall burn their fat for an offering made by fire, for a sweet smell to the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 21:10
Their bull engenders, and fails not; their cow calves, and casts not her calf.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Christ's Plea for Ignorant Sinners
... will consider about buying a horse or a cow; but he ... sin, when we drank it down as
the ox drinketh down ... the soldiers who have nailed me here." He includes them. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/christs plea for ignorant sinners.htm

His Future Work
... This includes the Old Testament and New Testament believers ... And the cow and the bear
shall feed; their young ... together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the work of christ/iii his future work.htm