Swine

Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia

(Deut. 14:8; Lev. 11:7–8)—the domestic pig. Pork from this animal, regarded as especially unclean, was so abhorrent to Jews and to Muslims known to the source that many avoided even pronouncing its name and instead said “that beast” or “that animal.” Thus the prodigal son’s occupation feeding swine represented the most contemptible labor (Luke 15:15). Isaiah 65:4 names eating swine’s flesh among Israel’s sinful practices.

Scripture cited

Deuteronomy 14:8 Leviticus 11:7 Luke 15:15 Esaias 65:4

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