Animals in The Bible - Part 1

Animals In The Bible - Part 1

Collin Leong, Jan 23, 2025.

The Bible mentions many types of animals, birds and insects. In addition to literal references, they are often used as symbols, or metaphorical, or in prophecies and parables, in order to convey deeper spiritual truths.

Below is a list of some animals mentioned in the Bible, grouped by type. The types are: 

1. Mammals (Part 1)
2. Birds (Part 2)
3. Reptiles & Amphibians (Part 2)
4. Fish and Sea Creatures (Part 2)
5. Insects (Part 2)

I've broken the Animals portion into 3 blogs, as there are so many of them. For each one types. I have also put the "Top 10" in front of the blog. These are creatures that has been mentioned to most in OT and also in NT. 

My objective is to point out what the scripture used them for, and what they symbolize for God and men in bible times (if any).  From the stories or event they were in, we can potentially learn of the applications in our lives.

A. Mammals

1. Lamb (OT/NT Top 10) - Symbolizes innocence and sacrifice. In the Old Testament, the lamb is used for sacrifice. The stories foretold the real lamb that will come to be sacrificed on the cross in order for God to forgive everyone's sin. His name is Jesus. 

One of the first reference is in Exodus 12:3-5, where God asked each Israelites household to slaughter a lamb, and paint their door frame with the blood. This is so that the angel of death will pass by their house when he sees the blood on the door frame. This symbolizes a future time when Jesus' blood will cover our sins, so that we will not "die the second death", i.e. to go into the lake of fire. Only those who make Jesus their savior will be covered with his blood. 

Another interest reference to the lamb is Genesis 22:7-8, where Abraham obeyed God and took his son, Isaac, to be sacrificed. In v8,  "Isaac said, 'but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?' Abraham answered, 'God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.'  I do not know if Abraham was lying to his son, or making a prophecy, but he was right - only God can provide a sacrificial lamb that can take away our sins. 

Jesus was also referred to as the lamb. When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he said “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29.  Jesus was sacrificed on the cross, and 3 days later, He was resurrected from death . His sacrifice was accepted by God, otherwise He cannot arise from the grave. After 40 days, he ascended into heaven, in front of his disciples. 

In heaven, he was still remembered as the lamb who was slain. The disciple John said in Revelation 5:6 "Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders."

2. Goat (OT/NT Top 10) - Used as sin or separation from God in a parable, but also used to paint the picture of atonement sacrifice and removing our sins. 

What is the difference between lamb, ram, sheep and goat? A lamb, ram and sheep are actually the same species. 

• A lamb is a young sheep, typically under one year old. 
• A ram is an adult male sheep. Not all rams have horns - it depends on a genetic trait that varies among different breeds. 
• A sheep is just a  general term for the species, including both males and females, young and old.
• A goat is a distinct species from sheep, with various breeds. They are shorter, coarser hair; often have beards and straight horns; more agile and curious.

Jesus also mention separation of sheep and goats in a parable. Matthew 25:32 says: "All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats."  It goes on to say that the sheep will be brought into the Kingdom of God; while the goats are sent to the lake of fire. 

Spiritually, the goat represent sin and atonement from God. During the Day of Atonement ritual, the goats are used for two purposes. The first purpose is for atonement for the sins of the Israelites.  “He shall then slaughter the goat for the sin offering for the people and take its blood behind the curtain and do with it as he did with the bull’s blood: He shall sprinkle it on the atonement cover and in front of it. (Lev 16:15) The "he" refers to the High Priest, Aaron. This is part of the sin offering, 

After the atonement is complete, Aaron lay hands on the head of the live goat, and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites. He then send the goat away into the wilderness with someone appointed for that task. "The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a remote place; and the man shall release it in the wilderness." (Lev 16:22) This second goat symbolize that the atonement of sin will carry all their sins into the wilderness, and it will never return to the people.

Atonement refers to the process of making amends or reparation for wrongdoing or sin. However, Paul told us this in Hebrews 10:3-4: "But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins. It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins." and in v10, Paul declared that "we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

This practice prophesy what Jesus will do for us, when He Himself became a sacrifice to atone for our sins. In other words, Jesus substitute us and bear our punishment for sin. It leads to the forgiveness of sins by the Father, and removal of guilt from our hearts. 

3. Sheep (OT/NT Top 10) - In Jesus' parables, sheep represents God's people. 

In Matthew 18:12-14, he told the parable of a lost sheep. The shepherd left the ninety-nine sheep and went to look for the lost sheep. When he finds it, he is happier about that one sheep than all the ninety-nine that did not wander off.  The lesson is: "In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish."

Jesus uses the imagery of sheep to symbolize His followers, emphasizing God's care and concern for each individual believer, especially those who may have strayed or are in need of guidance and protection.

If you have sheep, you must have a shepherd. Without a shepherd, the sheep will get into trouble, such as:

a) Wandering and Getting Lost: Sheep have a tendency to wander off and can easily get lost without a shepherd to guide them.

b) Predators: Sheep are vulnerable to predators like wolves, coyotes, and dogs. A shepherd provides protection and keeps predators at bay.

c) Lack of Food and Water: Sheep rely on the shepherd to lead them to good pastures and water sources. Without guidance, they may struggle to find adequate food and water.

d) Health Challenges: A shepherd monitors the health of the flock, providing care and treatment for injuries or illnesses. Without this care, the overall health of the flock can decline.

e) Social Structure: Sheep are social animals and rely on the shepherd to maintain order and cohesion within the flock. Without a shepherd, the flock can become disorganized and stressed.

Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away." (John 10:11-12)  Jesus was comparing himself with the Pharisees who were self-centered, rather than showing compassion and love to the people. 

Without a spiritual shepherd, believers can feel lost, vulnerable, and disconnected from their faith community. Jesus is our chief shepherd! "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."  (1 Peter 5:4)

Finally, even the mighty David testified he needed a shepherd:

"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:1-4)

Let's keep our Chief Shepherd in sight in whatever we do or wherever we go. 

4. Ram (OT Top 10): Used in sacrifices, notably in the story of Abraham and Isaac.

The Ram, like the goats, are also used for burnt offering sacrifice. Leviticus summarize it this way: "“This is how Aaron is to enter the Most Holy Place: He must first bring a young bull for a sin offering a and a ram for a burnt offering.... From the Israelite community he is to take two male goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering." (Leviticus 16:3, 5)  These are two sets of animals, one is for atonement for Aaron and his family, and the second set is for the community. Each set has a ram for the offering. 

Even back in Genesis, before Moses' law was established, Abraham knew that a lamb or a ram is used as a sacrifice to God. God was testing Abraham by asking him to kill his son. Abraham obeyed, but God stopped him. Instead God provided a ram. "Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son." (Gen 22:13)

5. Lion (OT Top 10) - Represents strength and majesty. Amos 3:8 says: "The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Sovereign Lord has spoken - who can but prophesy?"   This was God warning Israel of His punishment for their sins, and they should be afraid. 

It also symbolizes courage and boldness. Proverbs 28:1 says "The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion."  If we did not do anything wrong, we should not be afraid but to have courage that God will protect us from evil. 

While Jesus came as a lamb the first time, the bible said he will come again as a lion. In Revelation 5:5, In John's vision, he was weeping as nobody was found worthy to open the seals of judgment. The elders told him: 'Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.'" The word lion symbolize His strength, authority, and kingship.

However, in a different context, a "roaring lion" represents Satan. "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Pet 5:8)  But Peter also said "to resist him, standing firm in the faith." (v9)  We don't need to fight him, we just need to stand firm in faith and in the truth. 

Satan can oppress us if we are not faithful in our worship and meditate on His word. The person may experience spiritual apathy (no interest in praying or reading the bible), having negative thoughts about himself (worthlessness, hopelessness, self-harm), being ill without any reason and persist despite treatment, emotional turmoil (fear, anxiety, depression, anger), cannot sleep, and addiction to sinful behavior. 

However, Satan and his demons cannot possess us, for the Holy Spirit living in us will not leave us and is stronger than Satan. "... the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)

6. Donkey  (OT/NT Top 10) - Represents humility and peace; it also symbolize service and obedience. 

Donkeys are seen as a humble animal, unlike horses, which is associated with war. They were used by prophets and leaders to carry out God's work, such as Balaam's donkey (Numbers 22:21-33) and the donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem (Luke 2:4-5).

The most famous event in the New Testament, was when Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem for his last Passover. And everyone who heard him coming went to the road and wave the branches and spread them on the road, shouting: “Hosanna b to the Son of David!”, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”,  “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matt 21:9)

This event fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 - 

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

Isn't it amazing that Jesus sat on a humble donkey, rather than a mighty horse, into Jerusalem with the intention of bringing salvation to everyone? This act demonstrated that His kingdom was not of this world and emphasized His role as the Prince of Peace. But one day, on his way back to earth to judge the people, He will indeed ride on a warhorse as a conquering King. (Rev 19:11)

7. Bull/Ox: (OT Top 10) - What is the difference between a Bull and an Ox?  

A bull is an adult male bovine that is not castrated. Bulls are primarily used for breeding purposes due to their intact reproductive capabilities. Bulls are typically more muscular and aggressive compared to oxen. They have a more pronounced neck and shoulder hump.

An ox is an adult male bovine that has been castrated and trained for work. Oxen were essential for plowing fields and preparing the land for planting crops. They also pull carts and carry heavy loads, and thresh grain by walking over it. Castration makes them more docile and easier to handle. Oxen are generally larger and stronger than bulls, with a more even temperament. (Bulls are also sometimes used for heavy labor.)

Owning bulls/oxen was a sign of wealth and prosperity, as they are valuable assets for farming and transportation.  They also provide meat, mile, and hides for clothing. 

In the Bible, oxen & bulls symbolize strength and power. In Deuteronomy 33:17, Moses compared the strength of Joseph clan like the horns of a wild ox.  "In majesty he is like a firstborn bull; his horns are the horns of a wild ox. With them he will gore the nations, even those at the ends of the earth."

Both the bulls and oxen can be used for burnt offering. For example: "If the offering is a burnt offering from the herd, you are to offer a male without defect." Leviticus 1:3a, and "All the oxen for the burnt offering totaled twelve bulls, twelve rams and twelve male lambs a year old, together with their grain offering." (Numbers 7:87)

It is interesting that God wanted the best of the best assets at that time for burnt offering. The Israelites must also offer a bull for the monthly New Moon, and all the major festivals such as Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles.  In today's comparison, God wants us to offer him our car every year!  Will we be willing to give our car to God each year??

This emphasize the importance of burnt offering and other offerings, as they represent the future sacrifice of Jesus Christ to save us from our sins. While salvation is free, the cost of salvation is infinitely expensive and heart-broken for God. 

Of course, not all of us can afford a car; similarly, not all the Israelites are rich enough to own bulls or oxen. God took this into account, and gave them options to offer sheep, goats, dove, and young pigeons. (Leviticus 1:10, 14)

However, even we give our car to the Lord each year, it is not enough to get eternal life. In Hebrew 10:4, it says: "It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins." Subsequently in v9-10, it said: "Then he [Jesus] said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” ... And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."   Hallelujah!!!

8. Camel (NT Top 10) - Associated with wealth and desert travel.

In the old testament, camels are used to carry precious spices, gold and precious stones. This can be found in Genesis 24:10 - "Then the servant left, taking with him ten of his master’s camels loaded with all kinds of good things from his master."  Abraham's servant brought jewelry and gifts on camels as he went seeking for a wife for Isaac. 

Another story was told that the brothers of Joseph (Jacob's sons) wanted to kill him, but Reuben prevented that and they threw them into the cistern. Later they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites with their camels loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, going towards Egypt. (Ishmaelites are descendants of Abraham's second wife, Hagar.)  

They decided to sell Joseph to them, for 20 shekels of silver. They then lied to Jacob that Joseph was killed by a ferocious animal. However, this was part of God's plan to make Joseph a leader in Egypt who will save his own town and family in future. 

Another person who used camels to carry valuable goods was the queen of Sheba. She was travelling to visit King Solomon on caravan of camels. "Arriving at Jerusalem with a very great caravan—with camels carrying spices, large quantities of gold, and precious stones—she came to Solomon and talked with him about all that she had on her mind." (1 Kings 10:2)

As Christians, we are also carrying very valuable assets in our body - which is the Holy Spirit who came into our hearts when we believe that Jesus is our savior. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."

The Holy Spirit gives us power to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8), and teaches us how to live a faithful life to God (John 14:26) and it seals our redemption to enter into God's Kingdom (Eph 1:13; Eph 4:30). What can be more valuable than that?  We need to ensure we are filled with the spirit and obey what He says to us. 

Jesus used a camel in one of his teachings - "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God."  (Matthew 19:24)  He said this referring to the rich man who kept all the laws, but refuse to sell his possession and follow Jesus. However, Jesus did not say it is impossible, only difficult. But what is impossible for man, is possible for God. 

9. Wolf (NT Top 10) - Represents danger or false prophets  

In the New Testament, Jesus use analogy of a wolf to represent false prophets. In Matthew 7:15, He said: "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves." False prophets or false teachers are deceitful, pretending to be holy when they are not. Jesus emphasizes the importance of discerning true prophets from false ones by their actions and the "fruit" they produce. (v16-20) This means evaluating their teachings and behaviors to see if they align with God's truth and righteousness.

Paul also use wolf to represent false prophets. On the way to Jerusalem, he asked the elders of Ephesus to meet him at Miletus. He told them to feed and shepherd God's flock. He also said: "I know that false teachers, like vicious wolves, will come in among you after I leave, not sparing the flock. Even some men from your own group will rise up and distort the truth in order to draw a following." (Acts 20:29-30)  These false teachers don't just come from outside, but also from within the church.  This is Satan's strategy to confuse the Christian community and lead them astray. 

In Ezekiel, God said that the spiritual leaders - the priests - have violated his instructions and have not thought God's true law to the Israelites. "Your leaders are like wolves who tear apart their victims. They actually destroy people’s lives for money!" (Ezekiel 22:27). It is sad when the leaders you trusted are lying and abusing you. 

God accused the spiritual leaders giving false vision and lied about their predictions or prophecies. "They say. 'My message is from the Sovereign LORD,’ when the LORD hasn’t spoken a single word to them." (Eze 22:28). Some of our church leaders today may be practicing these lies. It is so easy to say "God told me this, and God told me that", to lead the people into false hope and to get more money for the church (and themselves) by preaching prosperity gospel!  

Yet, many Christians and church member are deceived, and was led away from the truth of the scripture. Sometimes they practice unethical or immoral behavior, following the examples of their leader. They can exploited for the leaders' financial gain. Sooner or later, such churches will be exposed, causing lost of faith among the members. As Christians, we should not idolize the leaders, no matter if they are excellent speakers or preachers. We should assess if what the leaders teach are aligned with the Bible, and our eyes should be on Jesus only.

As Matthew 7 says, we can recognize these false teachers by looking at their fruits. They may say the church needs money to serve God, but they themselves drive luxurious cars and live in bungalows. In USA, some of them have their private planes! They will not escape God's judgement, when He divide the sheep from the goats. (Matthew 25:32-33)