Pearls before swine
A verse from the Bible that is often quoted and discussed for its metaphorical depth is:
Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. - Matthew 7:6
This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus imparts teachings and wisdom to His followers. The meaning of this verse can be unpacked in several layers:
Literal Interpretation
On a surface level, the verse uses the imagery of dogs and swine, animals considered unclean in Jewish culture, to symbolize those who would not appreciate or respect sacred things. That which is holy and pearls represent something of great value—spiritual truths or the teachings of the gospel.
Symbolic Interpretation
The verse is generally interpreted as an instruction on discernment in the dissemination of spiritual teachings. It advises against sharing valuable spiritual insights with those who are not ready to receive them or who might scorn, reject, or abuse these teachings. The reference to dogs and swine metaphorically represents those who, due to their current state of understanding or willingness, might not appreciate or respect what is being offered.
Context within the Sermon on the Mount
This verse fits within the broader context of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches about a range of behaviors and spiritual attitudes, emphasizing the need for a transformation of the heart rather than mere external compliance with the law. Here, the call for discernment in sharing holy teachings aligns with the idea that the followers of Jesus must be wise about how they live out and share their faith.
Application and Theological Reflection
In a practical sense, this verse counsels believers to be thoughtful and selective about how and with whom they share their deepest convictions and the truths of their faith. This is not necessarily a call to exclusivity but rather an encouragement to ensure that the sharing of one's faith is done in a way that is likely to be received well and to genuinely benefit others. It also implies a protective measure for one's spiritual gifts and insights, suggesting that sharing indiscriminately might not only be unproductive but could also lead to persecution or harm (turn again and rend you).
Broader Biblical Theme
The theme of this verse is echoed throughout the scriptures, where wisdom, discernment, and the appropriate handling of what is sacred are recurrent. For example, Proverbs frequently mentions the wise handling of knowledge and discernment among different audiences.
Matthew 7:6 encourages careful discernment in sharing the sacred aspects of faith, aiming to preserve the sanctity of the holy and ensure that it is respected and valued appropriately. It highlights a universal principle in many religious and secular contexts about the prudent revelation of deeper knowledge or personal treasures.
There are several other scriptures across both the Old and New Testaments that echo the theme of discernment, wise sharing of knowledge, and the appropriate handling of what is sacred. Here are a few examples that convey a similar message to Matthew 7:6:
Proverbs 9:7-8:
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
This passage advises discernment in correction, suggesting that wisdom be shared with those who are receptive and can appreciate it.
Proverbs 23:9:
Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
Similar to Matthew 7:6, this proverb warns against sharing wisdom with those who are not ready to hear it, as it will not be valued.
Acts 13:45-46:
But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.
Here, Paul and Barnabas decide not to waste their efforts on those who reject their message vehemently, instead turning to a more receptive audience.
2 Timothy 2:23-25:
But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. This advises avoiding arguments that are pointless or unproductive, instead focusing on gentle and patient instruction.
Titus 3:9-11:
But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
Similar to the teachings in Timothy, this passage advises avoiding unproductive debates and, after attempting to correct a divisive person a couple of times, moving on.
These scriptures collectively emphasize the importance of sharing knowledge and spiritual truths wisely, recognizing when such efforts are likely to be fruitful and when they may instead lead to rejection or conflict.
Let's look at Proverbs 9:7-8 in more detail, as it offers practical wisdom on the dynamics of interaction when offering correction or rebuke. The verses read:
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of these verses:
Verse 7
The Risks of Reproving the Wrong Audience
Reproving a Scorner: The term 'scorner' refers to someone who mocks or dismisses wisdom and lacks respect for authority or moral guidance. The verse warns that attempting to correct a scorner only leads to 'shame' for the one who corrects. This shame may come from public humiliation, as scorners might react defensively or mockingly, undermining the reprover’s efforts.
Rebuking a Wicked Man: Rebuking someone who is actively engaged in wicked behavior can result in a "blot" on the reputation of the one who rebukes. This is because wicked individuals may retaliate or spread falsehoods, potentially tarnishing the reputation of the reprover.
Verse 8
The Wisdom of Choosing the Right Audience
Reprove not a Scorner: This advice is about avoiding the futile or even harmful efforts of correcting those who will not listen. The scorner's typical response to reproof is hatred rather than appreciation or change, making the effort counterproductive.
Rebuke a Wise Man: In contrast to the scorner, a wise man values growth and learning. When rebuked, a wise person will not only accept the correction but will also appreciate the one who provides it. This leads to an increase in love and respect towards the corrector, as the wise see rebuke as an opportunity to improve themselves.
Application and Theological Reflection
The proverbs highlight the importance of discerning the character of the audience when offering correction. It reflects a broader biblical theme that wisdom is not merely in possessing knowledge but also in knowing when and how to apply it effectively. Effective communication, especially in matters of correction, requires understanding people’s disposition and readiness to accept guidance.
Broader Implications
These verses not only serve as guidance for personal interactions but also for teaching, counseling, leadership, and any role involving mentorship or correction. The wisdom in Proverbs 9:7-8 teaches that successful correction depends as much on the readiness of the listener as on the truth of the message delivered.
This understanding encourages a thoughtful approach to communication, emphasizing the need to adapt one's methods according to the situation and the audience's receptiveness, thereby maximizing the possibility of positive outcomes and personal growth.