Animals in the Bible: Explained, Explored, Exhibited

There is an abundant supply of life in the rivers, lakes, and oceans around the globe. Fish are beautiful and greatly varied, but there are also sharks, stingrays, whales, and many other fascinating creatures when you plunge into the deep. Fish were important throughout the Bible. They were caught for food and Christ performed several miracles involving fish. Many fish swim together in schools and have a complex symbiotic relationship with the plants and animals around them.

One of the fascinating things about fish is how they stay warm in cold waters. Some fish have a special protein in their blood that which acts like anti-freeze and helps them survive the bitter temperatures. Tuna fish have two sets of muscles that actually create heat from its swimming motions.

Birds are amazing creatures. They soar and swoop effortlessly through the air. They vary greatly in size and ability, from a tiny hummingbird to a mighty eagle, and everything in between. God created them to inhabit the "open firmament of heaven," and this they do with ease and splendor. One of the birds mentioned frequently in the Bible is the Dove. The dove was taken into Noah's ark and later released into the air to see if it could find dry land upon which to build its nest, as the waters of the Flood subsided. The dove returned with a olive branch in its beak. Throughout the Bible, it is repeatedly seen as a symbol of peace. It was also in the form of a dove that the Holy Ghost descended from heaven and alighted upon Christ at His baptism.

The earth is full of a surprising number of land animals. Whether it's a tiny centipede or a roaring lion, God's wisdom and creativity are on display. The lamb is an animal mentioned throughout the Bible. Many of the patriarchs, such as Abraham, and Jacob, and later men such as Moses and David were shepherds. Their flocks provided much milk and wool. The lamb was used frequently as an offering in the Jew's sacrificial system. Christ is said to be the Lamb of God, and Christians are described as lambs who follow their Master's voice.