Cattle
“Oxen / Possession (property)”
Summary
A general term in Scripture for domesticated animals, especially oxen and cows, which were central to Israelite agricultural life and worship.
☩Terminology
In Scripture, 'cattle' translates several Hebrew words with different nuances. The term miqneh (from 'to acquire') reflects that livestock was a primary form of property, including oxen, sheep, goats, camels, and asses. The word tso'n refers specifically to small cattle (sheep and goats), while baqar denotes neat cattle (oxen and cows). This range of terminology shows how central livestock was to Hebrew life and vocabulary—words for 'possession' and 'cattle' share the same root because flocks were the principal wealth of nomadic peoples.
☩Raising and Care
The patriarchs and later Israelites practiced extensive cattle-raising, especially in regions like Bashan (famous for strong bulls) and the plain of Sharon (noted for fine pastures). Even kings had their herdsmen. Cattle were used for sacrifice (requiring animals of finest quality), for food on festive occasions, for plowing, threshing, and sometimes for draft and burden. During summer cattle ranged in the open, while stalls were used for shelter and feeding. Their fodder included grass, meadow plants, and meslin (mixed feed).
☩Mosaic Regulations
The Mosaic law contained several provisions regarding cattle: threshing oxen were not to be muzzled, preventing them from eating; whoever stole and slaughtered an ox owed fivefold restitution; strayed or fallen cattle must be helped and returned to owners; an ox and ass must not be yoked together. These laws reflected both economic reality and compassionate treatment of animals. The sacrifice of cattle was central to Israelite worship, with bulls and oxen offered in various ceremonies and festivals.
Related Verses138 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Cattle," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Cattle," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Cattle," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).