Topical Bible: the Domestic Donkey: Urged on With a Staff

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◄ the Domestic Donkey: Urged on With a Staff ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The domestic donkey, a humble yet significant animal in biblical times, is frequently mentioned throughout Scripture. Known for its endurance, strength, and ability to carry heavy burdens, the donkey was an essential part of daily life in ancient Israel. It served as a means of transportation, a beast of burden, and even a symbol in various biblical narratives.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The donkey is first mentioned in Genesis, where it is listed among the possessions of the patriarchs. In Genesis 22:3, Abraham saddles his donkey as he prepares to obey God's command to sacrifice Isaac. This early mention underscores the donkey's role as a reliable companion in fulfilling divine purposes.

In the account of Balaam, the donkey plays a pivotal role. Numbers 22:21-33 recounts how Balaam's donkey, seeing the angel of the Lord, refuses to move forward despite Balaam's urging with a staff. This narrative highlights the donkey's perceptiveness and the divine intervention that can occur through seemingly ordinary creatures. The donkey's ability to see the angel when Balaam could not serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of spiritual awareness.

The donkey also appears in the account of the judges. In Judges 15:15, Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey to defeat a thousand Philistines, demonstrating how God can use the simplest of means to achieve His purposes. The donkey's jawbone becomes a symbol of divine empowerment and victory against overwhelming odds.

The Donkey in Prophecy and Fulfillment

One of the most significant mentions of the donkey in the Bible is found in the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which foretells the coming of the Messiah: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Testament when Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, as recorded in Matthew 21:1-7. The choice of a donkey, rather than a horse, emphasizes Jesus' humility and the peaceful nature of His kingdom.

Practical Uses and Cultural Significance

In biblical times, donkeys were urged on with a staff, a common practice for guiding and controlling these animals. The staff, a simple yet effective tool, was used to direct the donkey's path and encourage it to continue its journey. This imagery is reflected in various biblical passages, where the staff symbolizes authority, guidance, and discipline.

The donkey's cultural significance extends beyond its practical uses. It is often associated with themes of humility, service, and obedience. In a society where wealth and power were often displayed through horses and chariots, the donkey represented a countercultural symbol of modesty and reliance on God's provision.

Conclusion

The domestic donkey, urged on with a staff, holds a unique place in biblical history and theology. Its presence in key narratives and prophecies underscores its role as a symbol of humility, divine intervention, and fulfillment of God's promises. Through the lens of Scripture, the donkey serves as a reminder of the ways God uses the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 22:23,27
And the ass saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way.
Torrey's Topical Textbook