In the biblical context, livestock and goods hold significant importance, both as symbols of wealth and as essential components of daily life and religious practice. The Bible frequently references livestock and goods, illustrating their role in the economic, social, and spiritual dimensions of ancient Israelite society.

Livestock

Livestock in the Bible primarily includes animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, camels, and donkeys. These animals were vital for various purposes, including agriculture, transportation, clothing, and religious sacrifices. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were often described as wealthy in terms of their livestock holdings. Genesis 13:2 states, "Now Abram was very rich in livestock, silver, and gold."

Sheep and goats were particularly important for their wool, milk, and meat. They were also central to sacrificial practices, as seen in Leviticus, where specific instructions are given for offerings. For example, Leviticus 1:10 states, "If, however, his offering is a burnt offering from the flock, from the sheep or the goats, he is to present an unblemished male."

Cattle were used for plowing fields and as a source of milk and meat. The importance of cattle is highlighted in the blessings of Deuteronomy 28:4, "The fruit of your womb will be blessed, as well as the produce of your land and the offspring of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks."

Camels and donkeys were essential for transportation and trade. Job, known for his wealth, had a significant number of camels, as noted in Job 1:3, "He owned 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and a very large number of servants."

Goods

Goods in the biblical narrative encompass a wide range of material possessions, including precious metals, textiles, spices, and other commodities. These goods were often used in trade, as gifts, or as offerings to God.

Gold and silver are frequently mentioned as symbols of wealth and were used in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple. Exodus 25:3-7 lists the offerings for the Tabernacle, including "gold, silver, and bronze; blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair."

Textiles, such as linen and wool, were valuable goods used for clothing and religious garments. Proverbs 31:24 describes the industrious woman who "makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchants."

Spices and incense were also significant, particularly in religious contexts. The offering of incense was a key part of worship, as seen in Exodus 30:34-35, where the LORD instructs Moses on the composition of sacred incense.

Trade in goods was a vital part of the economy, with Israel situated along major trade routes. Ezekiel 27 provides a detailed account of the trade practices of Tyre, highlighting the exchange of goods such as silver, iron, tin, and lead.

In summary, livestock and goods in the Bible are not only indicators of wealth and prosperity but also integral to the cultural and religious life of the Israelites. They reflect the agrarian lifestyle of the time and underscore the dependence on God's provision and blessing.