In the Bible, the bear is mentioned several times, often symbolizing strength, ferocity, and danger. The bear is a powerful animal, and its presence in biblical texts often conveys themes of divine judgment, protection, and the natural order.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 2:23-25: One of the most notable mentions of bears in the Bible is the account of the prophet Elisha. As Elisha was traveling to Bethel, a group of youths mocked him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead!" In response, Elisha called down a curse in the name of the LORD, and two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys. This event underscores the seriousness of respecting God's prophets and the divine protection afforded to them.

2. 1 Samuel 17:34-37: In this passage, David recounts his experience as a shepherd defending his flock from predators. He tells King Saul how he has killed both lions and bears, demonstrating his courage and God's deliverance. David's encounters with bears serve as a testament to his faith and God's provision, preparing him for his future battle with Goliath.

3. Proverbs 28:15: The bear is used metaphorically to describe a wicked ruler. "Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people." This comparison highlights the oppressive and destructive nature of unjust leadership, warning against the dangers of tyranny.

4. Isaiah 11:7: In a prophetic vision of the Messianic age, Isaiah describes a time of peace and harmony in creation: "The cow will graze with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox." Here, the bear symbolizes the transformation of nature under the reign of the Messiah, where natural enemies coexist peacefully.

5. Daniel 7:5: In Daniel's vision of the four beasts, the second beast resembles a bear. "And behold, another beast, a second one, resembling a bear. It was raised up on one side, with three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. And it was told, ‘Arise, devour much flesh!’" This bear is often interpreted as representing the Medo-Persian Empire, known for its strength and conquests.

Symbolism and Themes:

· Strength and Ferocity: The bear is often associated with power and the ability to cause destruction. This is evident in the accounts of Elisha and David, where the bear's strength is both a tool of divine judgment and a challenge to be overcome through faith.

· Divine Judgment and Protection: The incident with Elisha and the bears illustrates the theme of divine retribution against those who mock or oppose God's anointed. It also serves as a reminder of God's protection over His servants.

· Natural Order and Messianic Peace: In Isaiah's vision, the bear's peaceful coexistence with other animals symbolizes the restoration of creation and the establishment of God's kingdom, where natural hostilities are reconciled.

· Political Allegory: In prophetic literature, the bear often represents empires or rulers, emphasizing the themes of power, conquest, and the rise and fall of nations under God's sovereign plan.

The bear, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a multifaceted symbol reflecting God's power, the natural world's order, and the unfolding of divine prophecy throughout history.