The Sermon on the Mount
Matthew 5 - 7
Chapter 7
Do not give what is sacred to dogs, and do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under
their feet, and then turn and attack you.
What does this mean?
Explanation of Matthew 7:6
This passage, part of Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, uses vivid imagery to convey important principles
about discernment and the appropriate sharing of spiritual truths. Here’s a detailed biblical explanation of each
part:
"Do not give what is sacred to dogs,"
- Explanation: In Jewish culture, dogs were often seen as unclean animals. Here, "what is sacred" refers to holy
and valuable teachings or truths. Jesus advises against sharing sacred and holy things with those who are
hostile or disrespectful toward them. The metaphorical "dogs" represent people who are likely to treat holy
things with contempt or disdain.
"and do not throw your pearls to pigs."
- Explanation: Similarly, pigs were considered unclean animals in Jewish culture. "Pearls" symbolize precious and
valuable spiritual truths or wisdom. Jesus warns against offering these valuable teachings to people who are
likely to reject and disrespect them, represented metaphorically by "pigs."
"If you do, they may trample them under their feet,"
- Explanation: Jesus explains the consequence of disregarding this advice. Those who do not appreciate the value
of sacred teachings will trample them underfoot, treating them as worthless and disregarding their significance.
"and then turn and attack you."
- Explanation: In addition to trampling the valuable teachings, those who disrespect or reject them may also turn
against the one offering them, responding with hostility or aggression. This highlights the danger of sharing
sacred things with those who are not receptive.
Summary:
In this passage, Jesus teaches the importance of discernment in sharing spiritual truths. He uses the metaphors of
dogs and pigs to represent people who are likely to reject and disrespect what is holy and valuable. The "sacred"
and "pearls" symbolize precious spiritual teachings and wisdom. Jesus warns that sharing these with those who do not
appreciate their value can lead to the teachings being trampled and the giver being attacked. This teaching
encourages believers to use wisdom and discernment in sharing their faith, recognizing that not everyone will be
receptive or respectful of spiritual truths. It underscores the need to protect and honor the sanctity of God's
teachings by sharing them with those who are open and respectful.
