Swine
NatureWhat is the meaning of Swine in the Bible?
Swine are mentioned in the Old Testament as unclean animals, and their flesh and blood are referred to as abominations. In the New Testament, swine are associated with Gentiles and are used figuratively to describe people who return to sinful behavior.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the status of swine clarifies the strict dietary laws observed by ancient Jews and explains the cultural shock value of narratives involving pigs, such as the Gerasene demoniac, thereby illuminating the social boundaries between Jewish and Gentile communities in biblical times.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Swine in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Swine clarify?
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.