The pig, also known as swine, is an animal mentioned several times in the Bible, primarily in the context of dietary laws and symbolic teachings. In the ancient Near East, pigs were considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic Law, and this view is reflected in various biblical passages.

Dietary Laws and Uncleanness

In the Old Testament, the pig is classified as an unclean animal, forbidden for consumption by the Israelites. Leviticus 11:7-8 states, "And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you. You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you." Similarly, Deuteronomy 14:8 reiterates this prohibition, emphasizing the pig's status as unclean.

The prohibition against eating pork was part of the broader dietary laws given to the Israelites, which served to set them apart from other nations and to promote ritual purity. These laws were integral to the covenant relationship between God and His people, underscoring themes of holiness and obedience.

Symbolism and Teachings

The pig is also used symbolically in the Bible to convey spiritual truths. In Proverbs 11:22, the pig is used metaphorically to illustrate the incongruity of external beauty and internal folly: "Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion." This proverb highlights the importance of inner virtue over outward appearance.

In the New Testament, Jesus uses the imagery of pigs in His teachings. In Matthew 7:6, He advises, "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you." Here, pigs symbolize those who are unable or unwilling to appreciate the value of spiritual truths, warning believers to exercise discernment in sharing the gospel.

The Gadarene Demoniac

One of the most notable New Testament accounts involving pigs is the account of the Gadarene demoniac, found in Matthew 8:28-34, Mark 5:1-20, and Luke 8:26-39. In this narrative, Jesus encounters a man possessed by a legion of demons. The demons beg Jesus to send them into a herd of pigs, and upon His permission, they enter the pigs, which then rush down a steep bank into the sea and drown.

This event demonstrates Jesus' authority over demonic forces and serves as a powerful testament to His divine power. The destruction of the pigs also underscores the uncleanness associated with them, as well as the destructive nature of evil.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, pigs were often associated with Gentile practices and pagan rituals. The presence of pigs in the Decapolis region, where the Gadarene demoniac was healed, reflects the Hellenistic influence and the divergence from Jewish customs.

The Jewish aversion to pigs was not only religious but also cultural, as pigs were commonly used in Greco-Roman sacrificial practices. This cultural distinction further reinforced the separation between Jewish and Gentile communities.

Conclusion

The pig, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a symbol of uncleanness and is used in various teachings to illustrate spiritual truths. Its role in biblical narratives highlights themes of holiness, discernment, and the authority of Jesus over evil.