Introduction:
Pigs, also referred to as swine, are mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible. They are often associated with uncleanness and are used symbolically to convey spiritual truths. In the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, pigs were considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic Law.

Old Testament References:
In the Old Testament, pigs are explicitly listed among the unclean animals that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. 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 importance of maintaining ritual purity.

The prohibition against consuming pork was a significant aspect of the dietary laws that set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations. These laws were intended to teach the Israelites about holiness and separation from practices that were common among pagan cultures.

New Testament References:
In the New Testament, pigs are most notably mentioned in the account of Jesus casting demons into a herd of swine. In Mark 5:11-13 , it is recorded, "There on the nearby hillside a large herd of pigs was feeding. So the demons begged Jesus, 'Send us to the pigs, so that we may enter them.' He gave them permission, and the unclean spirits came out and went into the pigs. And the herd of about two thousand rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the water."

This event, also recounted in Matthew 8:28-34 and Luke 8:26-39, demonstrates Jesus' authority over demonic forces and highlights the spiritual uncleanness associated with pigs. The destruction of the pigs serves as a powerful visual representation of the destructive nature of evil.

Symbolic Use:
Pigs are used symbolically in several of Jesus' teachings. In Matthew 7:6 , Jesus warns, "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, emphasizing the need for discernment in sharing the gospel.

In the parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32, the younger son finds himself feeding pigs after squandering his inheritance. This detail underscores the depth of his fall from grace, as tending to pigs would have been a degrading task for a Jewish man. It highlights the consequences of sin and the desperation that can result from turning away from God.

Cultural and Religious Context:
In the cultural and religious context of the Bible, pigs were associated with uncleanness and were often used to illustrate spiritual truths about purity, holiness, and the consequences of sin. The dietary laws concerning pigs served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of their unique identity as God's chosen people and their call to live in obedience to His commandments.

Conclusion:
While pigs are mentioned relatively infrequently in the Bible, their symbolic significance and the lessons derived from their mention are profound. They serve as a reminder of the importance of spiritual purity and the transformative power of Jesus' authority over evil.