When we read the Bible, we find many animals that tell us something about God’s power and love. Lions roar with strength, sheep follow their shepherd, and eagles soar high in the sky. But what does the Bible say about cats?
The Bible never directly names our little house cats, yet it often speaks about their bigger relatives, like lions and leopards. These big cats appear more than a hundred times and carry deep spiritual meaning. Lions can show us God’s strength, Christ’s victory, and even warn us about the enemy who tries to deceive us.
So, while your pet cat may not walk across the pages of Scripture, its family the lions remind us of powerful truths. In this study, we’ll explore what the Bible teaches about cats, their symbolism, and what lessons believers today can take from them.
Are Cats Mentioned in the Bible?
The simple answer is no domestic cats are not directly mentioned in the Bible. When we turn the pages of Scripture, we do not see household cats like the ones we keep today. Instead, we often read about their larger relatives such as lions, leopards, and even wildcats.
Lions appear more than 150 times in the Bible, making them one of the most common animals in God’s Word. They are used as powerful symbols of strength, courage, and at times, danger. Leopards and other wild cats are also described, showing the writers of Scripture were familiar with these creatures of the Middle East.
One reason for the absence of domestic cats may be cultural. In ancient Israel and surrounding lands, cats were not commonly kept as pets the way they are today. While Egypt held cats in high honor and even worshiped them, the people of the Bible lived with different traditions. For this reason, the focus of Scripture is on animals that were part of their daily lives, like sheep, oxen, donkeys, and big cats in the wild.
Lions in the Bible and Their Symbolism
The Bible often uses lions to show spiritual truths. These mighty animals were well known in the lands of the Bible, and their power made them a natural picture of strength, courage, and even danger. Through different verses, God gives us lessons by using the image of a lion.
1. God as a Lion (Strength & Protection)
In Hosea 13:7, God says, “So I will be like a lion to them.” This picture shows us His authority and power over nations. Just as a lion rules the wild, God rules over all creation with unmatched strength.
In Isaiah 31:4, the prophet writes about a lion that is not afraid when shepherds shout against it. In the same way, God stands firm to protect His people. No one can move Him, and no one can take away His power.
Devotional insight: When life feels uncertain, we can remember that God is our strong protector. His roar is greater than any voice that rises against us.
2. The Devil as a Roaring Lion (Warning & Caution)
The Bible also warns us with the image of a lion. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This is not a picture of strength for good, but a reminder of danger. Just as a hungry lion looks for prey, the devil seeks to tempt and destroy.
Lesson: We must stay alert in prayer and faith. God calls us to be watchful, standing firm, and trusting His power to keep us safe.
3. The Lion of Judah (Christ’s Victory)
In the book of Revelation 5:5, Jesus is called “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.” This title shows His victory and authority as the promised Messiah. Unlike the enemy who tries to devour, this Lion brings salvation and triumph over sin and death.
Devotional insight: The Lion of Judah reminds us that Christ has already won the greatest battle. No matter how strong evil may look, Jesus has overcome it, and in Him we share that victory.
Are Cats Considered Unclean or Evil in the Bible?
Some people wonder if the Bible says cats are unclean or cursed. The truth is, the Bible never calls cats evil or unclean. Unlike certain animals that were considered unclean under the Old Testament law, cats are not mentioned in this way at all.
Instead, Scripture reminds us that all animals are part of God’s creation. In Proverbs 12:10, it says, “The righteous care for the needs of their animals.” This verse shows that God wants His people to treat animals with kindness and respect.
Devotional thought: God created every creature with a purpose. Just as lions show His strength and sheep show His guidance, the quiet presence of cats can remind us of rest, patience, and beauty in God’s design. No animal is outside of His care, and no creature is without meaning.
Symbolism of Cats in Christian Tradition
Even though the Bible does not speak directly about house cats, Christian tradition and art often gave them symbolic meaning. These meanings were shaped by the way people saw cats in daily life and culture.
1. Traits of Cats (Watchfulness, Independence, Rest)
Cats are known for their alert eyes and watchful nature. In a spiritual sense, this can remind us of the call to be watchful in prayer (1 Peter 4:7). Their independence can be seen as a lesson to trust God even when we walk alone, while their calm rest reflects the peace that comes from resting in the Lord (Psalm 62:1).
Lesson: By observing these traits, believers can be reminded of vigilance, faith, and the importance of finding rest in God’s presence.
2. Christian Renaissance Art Depictions
During the Renaissance, many Christian artists included cats in their paintings. In some works, cats symbolized cunning or independence, while in others, they represented domestic life and quiet companionship.
For example, in paintings of the Virgin Mary, a cat sometimes appears as a gentle presence in the home, showing domestic warmth. In other works, a cat’s sly posture symbolized human weakness or temptation.
Devotional reflection: These images remind us that even small animals can carry deep lessons. Depending on how we live, the same trait like independence can either draw us closer to God or push us away.
Paganism vs Christianity on Cats
Cats held a special place in many pagan cultures. They were often linked with gods and seen as sacred animals.
Pagan Beliefs
- Egypt (Bastet): In ancient Egypt, the goddess Bastet was often shown as a woman with a cat’s head. Cats were worshiped as protectors of the home and symbols of fertility.
- Norse (Freya): In Norse mythology, the goddess Freya’s chariot was said to be pulled by two cats, showing their link with love and beauty.
- Greek (Artemis): In Greek tradition, cats were connected with Artemis, the goddess of hunting and the moon.
Christian Difference
Christian faith does not worship animals or use them as gods. Instead, the Bible teaches us to worship the Creator, not the creature (Romans 1:25). While other religions lifted cats into divine status, Christianity sees them as part of God’s creation valuable, but not objects of worship.
Lesson: This difference shows us that our devotion must always be toward God alone. Cats, like all animals, point us back to the greatness of their Maker.
Cats in Other Religions
Cats also appear in the traditions of other major religions.
- Islam: Cats are considered clean animals. There are many stories about the Prophet Muhammad showing kindness to cats, which has led Muslims to treat them with respect and care.
- Judaism: In some Jewish legends, God created a housecat to live alongside Adam in the garden, showing companionship and balance in creation.
Contrast with Christianity: The Bible remains silent about domestic cats, yet its principles encourage kindness and respect for all animals. While not worshiped or given a direct role, cats still reflect God’s wisdom in creation.
Lessons for Christians Today (Devotional Application)
The Bible’s silence on cats does not mean they are unimportant. Instead, believers can draw lessons from their traits and remember God’s call to care for creation.
1. Caring for God’s Creation
Proverbs 12:10 says, “The righteous care for the needs of their animals.” As followers of Christ, we are called to show compassion to every creature, including the pets God has placed in our lives.
2. Learning from Cat’s Traits
Cats are gentle reminders of rest, patience, and watchfulness. Their calm posture can teach us to rest in God’s presence. Their patience shows us endurance in prayer. Their sharp eyes remind us to stay spiritually alert.
3. God Provides for All Creatures
Psalm 104:21 says, “The lions roar for their prey and seek their food from God.” This verse reminds us that God cares for even the mightiest animals. If He provides for the lions, how much more will He provide for His children?
FAQs: About What Does the Bible Say About Cats?
Are cats unclean in the Bible?
No, the Bible does not call cats unclean. While some animals had specific laws, cats are seen as part of God’s creation, deserving care and respect.
What is God’s purpose for cats?
God created all creatures with purpose. Cats remind us of rest, watchfulness, and independence, reflecting His wisdom and care in creation.
What does Jeremiah say about cats?
The Bible, including Jeremiah, does not directly mention domestic cats. It uses other animals, like lions, to teach spiritual lessons about strength and vigilance.
How are cats viewed biblically?
Cats are not specifically named in Scripture, but their traits can inspire lessons about patience, alertness, and trusting God’s provision.
Conclusion
Even though domestic cats are not directly mentioned in the Bible, their presence still reflects God’s beautiful design in creation. Lions and other big cats in Scripture remind us of strength, authority, and even caution. In the same way, our quiet house cats remind us of rest, patience, and watchfulness.
Every creature, whether great or small, carries a purpose in God’s world. As Proverbs 12:10 teaches, the righteous care for their animals. When we love and care for the pets God has entrusted to us, we reflect His compassion and kindness.
So, what does the Bible say about cats? It may not name them directly, but it points us to a greater truth: God’s care extends to every living creature and that includes the ones curled up by our side.
What do you think what lessons has your cat taught you about faith and life? Share your thoughts in the comments.