In the New Testament, the account of "Those Tending the Pigs" is primarily found in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in the account of Jesus healing the demon-possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes (or Gadarenes). This narrative is recorded in Matthew 8:28-34, Mark 5:1-20, and Luke 8:26-39. The presence of pigs in this account is significant, as it provides cultural and theological insights into the setting and the miraculous work of Jesus.

Biblical Account:

In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus and His disciples arrive on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Gerasenes. Here, they encounter a man possessed by a legion of demons. The man lived among the tombs and was uncontrollable, often breaking chains and shackles. Upon seeing Jesus, the demons within the man recognize Him and plead not to be tormented. They request to be sent into a nearby herd of pigs, numbering about two thousand. Jesus grants their request, and the demons enter the pigs, which then rush down the steep bank into the sea and drown.

The Berean Standard Bible records this event in Mark 5:11-13: "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."

Cultural Context:

The presence of pigs in this narrative is noteworthy, as pigs were considered unclean animals according to Jewish law (Leviticus 11:7). The fact that a large herd of pigs was being tended in this region suggests a Gentile population, as Jews would not typically engage in pig farming. This detail highlights the broader mission of Jesus, who ministered not only to the Jews but also reached out to Gentile territories.

The Role of the Pig Tenders:

Those tending the pigs play a crucial role in the aftermath of the miracle. After witnessing the dramatic event of the pigs rushing into the sea, the pig tenders flee and report what happened in the town and countryside. Their testimony spreads quickly, drawing a crowd to see Jesus and the formerly demon-possessed man, now clothed and in his right mind. The reaction of the townspeople is one of fear, and they plead with Jesus to leave their region.

In Mark 5:14-17 , it is written: "Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. Those who had seen it described what had happened to the demon-possessed man and also to the pigs. Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region."

Theological Implications:

The account of those tending the pigs underscores several theological themes. First, it demonstrates the authority of Jesus over demonic forces, showcasing His divine power to liberate individuals from spiritual bondage. Second, the destruction of the pigs serves as a vivid illustration of the destructive nature of evil and the cost of spiritual deliverance. Lastly, the reaction of the townspeople reflects the tension between the miraculous works of Jesus and the economic and social concerns of the community.

This narrative invites reflection on the priorities of individuals and communities when confronted with the transformative power of Christ. The pig tenders, though not central figures, are instrumental in spreading the news of Jesus' miraculous work, prompting a response from the broader community.