Wolf
“Zeeb, the wolf; also a personal name borne by a Midianite prince”
Summary
The wolf was the most dangerous predator of sheep in Palestine, serving in Scripture as the primary symbol of violent, rapacious enemies of God's flock.
☩The Animal
The wolf (Canis lupus) was common throughout Palestine, particularly in mountainous regions. It is described as ravenous, tearing prey, devouring flesh, and shedding blood. Wolves typically hunt at evening, prowling around folds to carry off sheep and goats. Their ferocity made them the most dreaded enemy of shepherds, and they appear frequently in biblical imagery as symbols of violence and rapacity.
☩Figurative Usage
Scripture employs the wolf extensively as a symbol of violent enemies. Jacob's prophecy that Benjamin would 'ravin as a wolf' was fulfilled in the tribe's fierce warriors like Ehud and Saul. Unjust rulers and wicked princes are compared to evening wolves. Jesus warned that false prophets come in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravening wolves, and He sent His disciples as sheep among wolves. Paul warned the Ephesian elders that after his departure grievous wolves would enter, not sparing the flock—a warning against false teachers who would scatter and destroy.
☩Messianic Transformation
Isaiah's vision of the peaceable kingdom declares that 'the wolf shall dwell with the lamb'—a striking image of the complete transformation that Messiah's reign will bring. This prophecy anticipates a time when natural enmities will be overcome and creation's harmony restored. The wolf dwelling peacefully with the lamb represents the reversal of the fallen order and the triumph of God's redemptive purposes.
Related Verses10 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Wolf," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Wolf," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Wolf," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).