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Animals play a significant role in the Bible. They are mentioned not only to describe the natural environment in which humans lived and their lifestyle, but also as literary devices used for parables and riddles, and as sources of profound insights into human nature and faith. The importance of animals to humans during the biblical era was substantial, as they were used for various purposes, whether as domesticated livestock or wild animals. Animals were sources of food, clothing, accessories, and tools, and were also employed in agricultural work and transportation. Simultaneously, while humans exploited animals, they also revered them and attributed human characteristics to them, turning animals into symbols with deep meanings. For example, the lion represents royalty and power, the sheep symbolizes humility and purity, and the ant epitomizes diligence. These images convey moral and social messages throughout the Bible. Furthermore, certain figures were compared to animals with specific traits, such as Naphtali, the son of Jacob, who was likened to a swift deer. Additionally, some animals were given religious connotations. For instance, the dove that signaled to Noah the end of the flood symbolizes peace and the reconstruction of the world. Humans expressed their deep religious connection to God by offering animals as sacrifices in religious rituals, underscoring the centrality of the altar in the Temple and the significant role of sacrificial ceremonies. The series of ATM postage labels emphasizes the relationship between animals and the geographical regions of the Land of Israel where they lived—from the rushing Kishon River in the north, where the horses and riders of Jabin, King of Hazor, drowned, to Beersheba in the south, where Abraham gave Avimelech, King of Gerar, seven sheep to signify Abraham’s ownership of the well, a crucial matter in a desert area with scant rainfall. The horse is known for its speed and strength, attributes reflected in the Bible. Horses were central in warfare, with armies using cavalry to attack enemies, pursue them, and dominate the battlefield. Chariots harnessed to horses were a particularly significant and deadly weapon. Deborah the prophetess mentioned the horses of Israel's enemies being defeated in battle: "The river Kishon swept them away, the age-old river, the river Kishon. March on, my soul; be strong! Then thundered the horses' hooves—galloping, galloping go his mighty steeds" (Judges 5:21–22). All the Philatelic items which have been Issue September 2024
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