What does the Bible say about spiders? This question may seem peculiar, as spiders are often viewed as creatures to be feared or avoided. However, the Bible provides a unique perspective on these arachnids, offering insights into their role in the natural world and their significance in human life. In this article, we will explore the various references to spiders in the Bible and their implications.
The first mention of spiders in the Bible can be found in the book of Genesis. In Genesis 1:30, it states, “And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, whereupon the grass groweth, in whose day they may move themselves, I have given every green herb for meat.” This verse implies that spiders, along with other creatures, were given permission to eat green herbs, suggesting that they were part of God’s creation and had a purpose in the natural order.
In the book of Job, spiders are mentioned in Job 8:11, where Job’s friend Zophar speaks of “the spider taking hold with her hands, and spreading out her filaments: who can stay her hands? Who can say to her, What hast thou done?” This verse seems to suggest that spiders are skillful and resourceful creatures, capable of creating intricate webs. It also highlights the idea that God has granted them the ability to create and sustain their own environments.
The New Testament also contains references to spiders. In Matthew 23:24, Jesus warns the Pharisees about their hypocrisy, saying, “Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.” This metaphorical use of a spider (or gnat) symbolizes the Pharisees’ focus on minor issues while ignoring more significant matters. It suggests that spiders, though small and often overlooked, can still serve as a reminder of the importance of focusing on the big picture.
In the book of Revelation, spiders are mentioned in Revelation 9:10, where it describes a locust-like creature that has “a crown of gold on his head, and his face was as the face of a man, and he had hair as the hair of a woman, and his teeth were as the teeth of a lion.” This creature is said to have “spider’s legs,” which could be interpreted as a symbol of chaos and destruction. This reference serves as a reminder that even seemingly insignificant creatures can have symbolic significance in the context of biblical prophecy.
In conclusion, the Bible provides various insights into the role of spiders in the natural world and their symbolic significance. While spiders may not be the central focus of biblical narratives, their mentions serve to highlight the intricate and diverse nature of God’s creation. Whether as part of the natural order, a metaphor for human behavior, or a symbol in prophecy, spiders remind us of the complexity and depth of the biblical message.
