The Bible mentions dogs in various contexts, sometimes in a negative light, but also as part of God’s creation. Today, we’ll look at what the Bible says about dogs and how they reflect God’s love and care for all living creatures.
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What Does The Bible Say About Dog
Proverbs 26:11
“As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.”
This verse illustrates the repetitive behavior of fools, comparing them to a dog returning to its own vomit. It serves as a reminder to avoid repeating the same mistakes and foolish actions.
However, it’s important to note that this verse does not devalue the significance of dogs or suggest that they are inherently foolish. Instead, it uses the behavior of a dog as a metaphor to convey a broader message about human behavior.
Matthew 15:26
“He replied, ‘It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.’”
In this verse, Jesus references the relationship between children and dogs to respond to a woman’s request for help. It highlights the priority of ministering to the needs of the chosen people before extending mercy to others.
While the analogy may initially seem harsh, Jesus eventually commends the woman’s faith and heals her daughter. This verse ultimately emphasizes the universality of God’s love and the ability for all, including “dogs,” to receive His grace.
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
Jesus’ words in this verse caution against sharing valuable and holy truths with those who are not receptive or do not have the appropriate understanding. It encourages discernment in spiritual conversations and interactions.
This does not imply that dogs or pigs are inherently unworthy or evil, but rather advises the preservation of sacred teachings and the importance of sharing them with those who are willing to receive and appreciate them.
Philippians 3:2
“Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.”
The Apostle Paul warns the Philippians about certain individuals who are like dogs, evil workers, and promote circumcision as a requirement for salvation. This verse serves as a warning to be cautious of those who distort the gospel.
It emphasizes the need to discern false teachings and false prophets who undermine the true message of salvation by relying on external rituals and works. Believers are urged to be vigilant and remain grounded in the true gospel of grace.
Luke 16:21
“And longed to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.”
In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, this verse describes the deplorable condition of Lazarus, who was covered in sores. The dogs, symbolizing compassion and unexpected kindness, provided some form of relief by licking his wounds.
This verse reminds us of the importance of showing compassion to the poor and marginalized. It challenges us to recognize the value of even the seemingly insignificant acts of kindness and love that can bring solace to those in need.
Proverbs 26:17
“Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.”
This verse employs the imagery of grabbing a stray dog by the ears as a metaphor for getting involved in a dispute or conflict that does not concern us. It highlights the potential dangers and foolishness of meddling in other people’s affairs.
Instead, it encourages wisdom and discernment when navigating interpersonal relationships and encourages us to focus on our own responsibilities and concerns rather than unnecessary conflicts.
Psalm 22:16
“Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet.”
This verse from Psalm 22 prophetically describes the suffering and persecution that Jesus would endure on the cross. It uses the image of dogs surrounding and attacking the psalmist to foreshadow the crucifixion of Christ.
It serves as a reminder of the sacrificial love shown by Jesus, who willingly allowed Himself to be pierced and crucified for the redemption of humanity, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and offering salvation to all who believe.
Matthew 7:15
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
This verse warns against false prophets who may appear outwardly righteous and benign but have deceptive intentions and destructive teachings. It urges believers to be discerning and cautious when evaluating the messages they hear.
It emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the true teachings of Christ, being rooted in the Word of God, and testing the spirits to ensure that we are not led astray by false doctrines or manipulative individuals.
Isaiah 56:10
“Israel’s watchmen are blind, they all lack knowledge; they are all mute dogs, they cannot bark; they lie around and dream, they love to sleep.”
Isaiah uses the metaphor of mute and sleeping dogs to depict the spiritual condition of the watchmen, who were responsible for guiding and warning God’s people. Their negligence and ignorance in fulfilling their duty are compared to dogs that refuse to bark.
This verse serves as a rebuke to those in positions of spiritual leadership who fail to speak up against injustice, fail to warn of impending danger, and neglect their responsibility to guide and shepherd God’s people.
Exodus 11:7
“But among the Israelites, from man to beast, not a dog will bark at any person or animal.’ Then you will know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.”
This verse describes a distinct contrast between the Israelites and the Egyptians during the final plague. The Israelites were set apart by God’s protection, symbolized by the fact that not a dog barked at them, highlighting God’s favor and deliverance.
It illustrates God’s sovereignty over His people and serves as a reminder that those who belong to Him are under His divine care and protection, even in the midst of adversity.
Isaiah 56:11
“They are dogs with mighty appetites; they never have enough. They are shepherds who lack understanding; they all turn to their own way, they seek their own gain.”
In this verse, Isaiah describes shepherds who are like insatiable and greedy dogs, driven by personal gain and lacking wisdom and understanding. Their self-centeredness and disregard for the well-being of the flock mirror the actions of false leaders and teachers.
This verse serves as a warning against being led astray by those who exploit God’s people for their own benefit and encourages discernment in recognizing true shepherds who are faithful stewards of God’s flock.
Deuteronomy 23:18
“You must not bring the earnings of a female prostitute or of a male prostitute into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, because the Lord your God detests them both.”
This verse explicitly states that earnings obtained through prostitution are unacceptable as an offering in the house of the Lord. It reveals God’s disdain for such immoral practices and His expectations for purity and righteousness.
It reminds believers of the importance of living lives that align with God’s standards, avoiding practices that dishonor Him, and seeking to offer Him holy and pleasing sacrifices from a heart of obedience and devotion.
1 Kings 14:11
“Dogs will eat those belonging to Jeroboam who die in the city, and the birds will feed on those who die in the country. The Lord has spoken!”
This verse, spoken by the prophet Ahijah, delivers a severe judgment against those who belong to Jeroboam for their disobedience and wickedness. It paints a vivid picture of the dishonor and desolation that would come upon those who die without repentance.
While this verse illustrates the severity of God’s judgment, it also serves as a reminder of the consequences of unrepentant sin and the urgency of turning to God in humility and seeking His forgiveness.
Proverbs 17:12
“Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool bent on folly.”
This proverb uses the imagery of an enraged bear without her cubs to convey that it is safer to encounter a dangerous animal than to engage with a fool who persists in foolish behavior and actions.
It emphasizes the potential harm and consequences of associating with those who refuse to heed wisdom and continue down a destructive path. It calls for discernment in choosing our companions and avoiding the influence of those who do not seek godly wisdom.
1 Samuel 17:43
“He (Goliath) said to David, ‘Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?’ And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.”
This verse captures the arrogant and mocking words of Goliath, the Philistine giant, as he belittles David prior to their battle. Goliath’s reference to being a dog implies contempt and challenges David’s choice of humble weapons.
However, this encounter showcases David’s unwavering faith and trust in the Lord, which enables him to defeat Goliath against all odds. It serves as a powerful reminder of the victory that can be achieved through reliance on God.
Psalm 59:6
“They return at evening, snarling like dogs, and prowl about the city.”
This verse paints a vivid picture of the wickedness and hostility of David’s enemies, comparing them to snarling and prowling dogs. It reflects the constant threat and danger he faced as he sought refuge from those who sought his life.
In the midst of these challenges, David places his trust in God’s deliverance and protection, serving as an example of how we can take refuge in the Lord during times of opposition and turmoil.
Psalm 22:20
“Deliver me from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dogs.”
This verse from Psalm 22 expresses the psalmist’s plea for deliverance and salvation from both the sword and the power of dogs. It highlights the distress and danger the psalmist faced, metaphorically represented by savage dogs.
Amidst the psalmist’s cry for help, it acknowledges God as the ultimate source of deliverance and refuge, seeking His intervention in moments of desperation and relying on His saving power.
2 Peter 2:22
“Of them the proverbs are true: ‘A dog returns to its vomit,’ and, ‘A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.’”
Peter references two proverbs in this verse to illustrate the destructive behavior and lack of genuine repentance among false teachers and those who turn away from the truth.
It serves as a warning against falling back into sinful habits and urges believers to strive for true transformation and a steadfast commitment to following Christ rather than reverting to past patterns of sin.
Ruth 2:10
“Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him warmly. ‘What have I done to deserve such kindness?’ she asked. ‘I am only a foreigner.’
In this verse, Ruth expresses gratitude and humility towards Boaz for his kindness towards her. As a Moabite, she recognizes that she is simply a foreigner in the land of Israel and acknowledges the favor she has received.
This verse highlights Ruth’s humility and grateful heart, demonstrating the importance of gratitude and acknowledging the kindness shown to us. It also foreshadows God’s redemptive plan unfolding through the lineage of Ruth, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ.
Luke 16:22
“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried.”
In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, this verse describes the contrasting fates of the two characters after their deaths. It signifies the definitive and unequal outcomes that await individuals based on their choices and the way they lived their lives.
It serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of wealth and the eternal significance of seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness. It challenges us to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly riches.
1 Kings 14:10
“Therefore, I am going to bring disaster on the house of Jeroboam. I will cut off from Jeroboam every last male in Israel—slave or free. I will burn up the house of Jeroboam as one burns dung until it is all gone.”
This verse depicts God’s judgment against Jeroboam, the king of Israel, for his idolatry and disobedience. It describes the destruction that would come upon his household and his reign, likening it to burning dung until it is entirely consumed.
It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the consequences that can follow. It encourages obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands, knowing that His judgments are righteous and just.
Mark 7:27
“‘First let the children eat all they want,’ he told her, ‘for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.’”
In this encounter with a Syrophoenician woman, Jesus initially refers to dogs in explaining the priority of ministering to the Jews before extending His grace to the Gentiles. His response highlights the distinction between the children (Jews) and the dogs (Gentiles).
However, Jesus ultimately commends the woman for her faith and grants her request, demonstrating that His love and salvation are not limited to a specific group but are available to all who believe and humbly approach Him.
Proverbs 26:17
“Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears, so is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.”
This verse employs the imagery of grabbing a stray dog by the ears to depict the foolishness and potential harm of involving oneself in disputes or conflicts that do not directly concern them.
It encourages wisdom and discernment in choosing our battles, avoiding unnecessary conflicts, and recognizing the importance of respecting others’ boundaries and autonomy in resolving their own disagreements.