Dogs have been very special in the lives of humans for centuries and the Bible acknowledges this. God created the dog as one of His creations (Genesis 1:20). The word “dog” appears multiple times in the Bible, mainly as reference to wild animals. The Book of Proverbs mentions dogs as “ravenous beasts” and “pointers” of words. Psalms 22:14-16 recommends the language of dogs: “I will keep barking like a dog, moan like a dove. Look! They have pierced my hands and feet”.
The Bible also praises dogs for their loyalty and friendship. Job 30:1 states: “But now they mock me, men younger than I, whose fathers I would have disdained to put among my sheep dogs.” Deuteronomy 23:18 states, “You shall not bring the hire of a harlot or the wages of a dog into the house of the Lord your God for any vowed offering, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God.” This shows the high regard that God has for dogs.
As well as being praised for their loyalty, dogs are also reprimanded for their barking. In the Bible, in Job 30:1, it is said that the “dogs barked at me”, while in Proverbs 26:17, it says that “one who seizes a dog by the ears is a caller of evil”. This seems to be a warning against teasing dogs, which would be cruel.
While the Bible generally looks favorably upon dogs, there have been some interpretations of the text that have resulted in negative views of dogs. For example, the belief that dogs are to be banished from the presence of God was derived from Deuteronomy 23:18. However, some modern theologians believe that this verse is not actually referring to pet dogs but to guard dogs with which one was not allowed to enter the temple of the Lord.
Furthermore, there is some religious literature which teaches that dogs are unclean animals. This may be related to the belief that dogs are scavengers and scavenging is not at all looked favorably upon in religious texts. However, this belief is not supported by the Bible, which does not label dogs as unclean.
Overall, the Bible does not teach that dogs are bad or evil, but rather that they are beloved and loyal, and should be treated with respect. God created the dog, and in numerous verses throughout the Bible, He acknowledges their value. The Bible also warns against teasing dogs or doing anything that would be cruel to them. The Bible is filled with reactions to and appreciations of dogs and it is clear that believers should follow God’s example and treat pets with kindness and respect.
Friendship
The Bible speaks a lot about friendship and companionship. Dogs can provide us with companionship and friendship and it is this relationship that God speaks about in the Bible. Ecclesiastes 3:12 states “I know that nothing is better for them than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live.”
So, clearly not only does the Bible recognize the importance of having companionship, but it also speaks of the joy and happiness that a dog can bring to people. Just like human friendships, a dog-owner relationship can bring comfort and joy, and require loyalty and faithfulness. As Proverbs 17:17 states: “A friend loves at all times.”
Obedience
Dogs are our loyal companions, yet the Bible does not only call for their loyalty, but also their obedience. Just like the bond between a child and its parent, a bond exists between a dog and its owner. The Bible even instructs us to teach our dogs and other animals how to behave and be obedient.
In Psalm 67:7, the Psalmist says: “God blesses us, and all the ends of the earth will fear him.” Not only does this passage remind us of how powerful and majestic God is, but it also serves as a reminder that obedience is of utmost importance in the eyes of the Lord, even if it’s between a dog and its owner.
Basically, it is telling humans that while it may seem the relationship between a dog and a person is unique and special, it should be no different than the obedience and respect that a child has for their parent. This also serves to remind us that all creatures, canine or otherwise, should be treated with love and respect and not just as tools or playthings.
Love and Kindness
The Bible speaks love, mercy and kindness in many verses. This can be extended to animals, especially beloved pets such as dogs. In Proverbs 12:10 it states, “A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast.” This verse goes on to explain how our duty to protect and care for animals is part of the duty to take care of ourselves and our families.
The Bible also speaks of how when we are kind to animals, we are ultimately being kind to ourselves. This verse in Micah 6:8 states, “He has shown you, O man, what is good and what the Lord requires of you. To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This passage encourages us to be merciful to all creatures, because it is the right thing to do, and it includes our beloved dogs.
Death and Burial
The Bible speaks of death, and when it comes to our beloved pets, the Bible speaks about dogs being buried as we bury humans. The Book of Job mentions how our beloved pets, dogs in particular, must be buried like humans when they die. The Book of Job 3:13 – 18 states that even those who don’t have a human burial should be mourned, stating: “For now I shall lie down in the dust; and You will seek me, but I will not be”.
This passage speaks to the grief that is associated with the loss of a beloved animal, and also tells us that even animals deserve a proper burial. This speaks to the deep bond we can have with our beloved pets and honors that bond, just as it honors the bond we have with our human loved ones.
This deep bond is further evidenced by the fact that in many cases, people who have lost their pets often go to great lengths to bury them in meaningful places to honor their animals and remember their companionship.
Legacy
Dogs often leave behind a legacy after their life on Earth has ended. Job mentions how a man shall grieve and respect his beloved pet as if it were his child, noting that the bond between dog and human can be a very powerful one. The man shall grieve his pet as his son or daughter in Job 3:13-18. In this passage, it is made clear why we should treat animals with the same respect we would treat humans.
Jesus was also said to have been a friend to all animals, and in fact mentioned them multiple times throughout the Bible. This serves as another reminder that animals, furry companions included, are to be treated with respect and kindness. Dogs have left a lasting impact throughout the history of the Bible, and should continue to be revered by believers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible speaks favorably of dogs, with praises for their loyalty and friendship. However, it also holds us accountable for their actions, and encourages us to teach and treat them with respect. The Bible also attests to the special bond humans can form with their canine companions and encourages us to love and care for them with the same mercy and kindness we extend to our human friends. The legacy of dogs in the Bible is testament to the value of their place in the world, and this legacy should continue forever.
