The term "swine" in the Bible refers to pigs, which are considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew word for swine is "חֲזִיר" (chazir), and in the New Testament Greek, it is "χοῖρος" (choiros). Swine are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, often symbolizing impurity and moral degradation.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, swine are explicitly listed among the 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 pig's status as an unclean animal.

The prohibition against eating swine was part of the broader dietary laws given to the Israelites, which served to set them apart as a holy people dedicated to God. These laws were intended to teach the Israelites about purity and obedience, distinguishing them from the surrounding nations.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, swine are mentioned in several key passages. One of the most notable is the account of Jesus casting out demons into a herd of pigs. In Matthew 8:30-32 , it is recorded, "And a large herd of pigs was feeding some distance from them. So the demons begged Jesus, 'If You drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.' 'Go!' He told them. So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and perished in the waters."

This event highlights the spiritual uncleanness associated with swine, as the demons chose to inhabit them. It also demonstrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits and His power to deliver those who are oppressed.

Another significant reference is found in the parable of the Prodigal Son. In Luke 15:15-16 , the wayward son, having squandered his inheritance, finds himself in dire straits: "So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his belly with the pods the pigs were eating, but no one would give him a thing." The son's association with swine underscores his fall from grace and the depth of his desperation, as tending pigs was a degrading occupation for a Jew.

Symbolism and Interpretation

Throughout the Bible, swine are often used symbolically to represent uncleanness and moral corruption. In Matthew 7:6 , Jesus warns, "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces." Here, swine symbolize those who are unable or unwilling to appreciate the value of spiritual truths.

The biblical portrayal of swine serves as a reminder of the importance of holiness and the need to separate oneself from that which is spiritually defiling. The dietary laws concerning swine, while no longer binding under the New Covenant, continue to offer valuable lessons about purity, obedience, and the call to live a life set apart for God.