Animals(beasts, clean and unclean animals, chickens)
Summary
Living creatures of many kinds mentioned throughout Scripture, including domestic animals, wild beasts, birds, fish, and insects.
☩Biblical Classification
Scripture divides animals into categories based on their manner of locomotion and habitat rather than modern taxonomy. Clean animals suitable for sacrifice and food were distinguished from unclean ones. Domestic animals like sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys were essential to pastoral life. Wild animals represented both provision (game) and danger (predators).
☩Spiritual Symbolism
Animals frequently appear as symbols: the lamb represents innocence and sacrifice, the lion signifies strength and royalty, the serpent represents Satan, and the dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Many proverbs draw wisdom from animal behavior, and prophetic visions employ animal imagery extensively.
Related Verses250 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Animals," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).