Sheep
NatureWhat is the meaning of Sheep in the Bible?
Sheep are domesticated ruminants characterized by their woolly coats and herd behavior, with a domestication history tracing back to the Near East. In ancient Palestine, they served as a primary source of meat, milk, wool, and hides, forming a cornerstone of the agrarian economy and daily subsistence.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the central role of sheep in ancient Near Eastern life illuminates the economic foundations of biblical societies and provides essential context for the rich symbolic language of sacrifice, leadership, and divine care found throughout the Scriptures.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Sheep in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Sheep clarify?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.