Sheep and donkeys in the Bible

A herd of sheep with a shepherd is a powerful image. Sheep always move around in large groups and they need guidance and protection. With this picture you could also describe a community of believers. But this image of sheep does not fit when work needs to be done. Have you ever seen a sheep carrying a heavy load for its boss? In Biblical times you needed other animals for that. Man's great helper in the Bible is the donkey.

• The parable of the Good Samaritan

• Balaam and his talking donke...

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