In biblical times, travel was a significant undertaking, often involving long journeys across challenging terrains. Those who traveled, whether for trade, pilgrimage, or other purposes, had to be well-prepared to ensure the success and safety of their journey. One critical aspect of preparation was the provision of provender, or fodder, for their beasts of burden. These animals, such as donkeys, camels, and horses, were essential for carrying goods and people, and their well-being was crucial for the journey's success.

The Bible provides several insights into the practices and considerations of travelers in ancient times. In Genesis 42:27, we see an example of travelers attending to their animals: "When one of them opened his sack to give feed to his donkey at the lodging place, he saw his money there in the mouth of the sack." This passage highlights the routine care given to animals during travel, as well as the importance of ensuring they were adequately fed.

In the account of the Good Samaritan, found in Luke 10:34, the Samaritan not only tends to the wounded man but also uses his own animal to transport him to safety: "He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him." This account underscores the reliance on animals for transportation and the implicit need to care for them, which would include providing them with food.

The provision of provender was not merely a practical necessity but also a reflection of stewardship and responsibility. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty." This verse emphasizes the moral obligation to care for animals, which would naturally extend to ensuring they were fed during journeys.

In the context of trade and commerce, the movement of goods often required caravans of animals. Ezekiel 27:15-25 describes the extensive trade networks of Tyre, which would have necessitated careful planning and provision for the animals involved in transporting goods. The logistical considerations of such trade routes would include ensuring that animals had sufficient provender for the journey.

The necessity of carrying provender is further illustrated in the account of Jacob's journey to Egypt. In Genesis 45:23, Joseph sends provisions for his father: "And to his father he sent the following: ten donkeys loaded with the best products of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain and bread and other provisions for his journey." This passage indicates the foresight required in preparing for travel, ensuring that both people and animals had the necessary sustenance.

In summary, the biblical narrative provides numerous examples of the importance of carrying provender for beasts of burden during travel. This practice was essential for the success of journeys, reflecting a broader principle of stewardship and care for God's creation. The well-being of animals was a practical concern that also carried moral and ethical implications, as travelers sought to fulfill their responsibilities in accordance with divine principles.Genesis 42:27
And as one of them opened his sack to give his ass provender in the inn, he espied his money; for, behold, it was in his sack's mouth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 19:19
Yet there is both straw and provender for our asses; and there is bread and wine also for me, and for your handmaid, and for the young man which is with your servants: there is no want of any thing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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