40+ Bible Verses About Cattle

“Gain profound insights from the Bible’s many references to cattle, which symbolize provision, abundance, and God’s care.”

The Bible is full of symbolism, and cattle play a significant role throughout Scripture. Cattle are often associated with God’s provision, wealth, and sacrifice, making them an important part of biblical culture and teaching. Whether used as a source of food, labor, or offerings, cattle represent the abundance and blessings that come from a life centered on faith.

This article explores some of the most impactful Bible verses about cattle, offering insights into what these animals represent in a spiritual context. We will also provide prayers for reflection and application.

1. God’s Provision Through Cattle

The Bible frequently highlights cattle as a sign of God’s provision for His people.

Scripture:
“And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.” (Genesis 13:2)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the ways You provide for us. Just as You blessed Abraham with wealth, may we always recognize and appreciate Your blessings in our lives. Amen.

2. Cattle as a Symbol of Wealth

Cattle are a representation of wealth and status in many biblical narratives, signifying God’s blessings.

Scripture:
“The Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning; he had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand female donkeys.” (Job 42:12)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to remember that true wealth comes from You. May we use any resources You’ve given us for Your glory. Amen.

3. Sacrificial Cattle as Offerings to God

In the Old Testament, cattle were often used for sacrificial offerings, symbolizing atonement and worship.

Scripture:
“You shall offer a bull as a sin offering for atonement.” (Exodus 29:14)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the sacrifices made on our behalf. Teach us to offer our lives as a living sacrifice, pleasing to You. Amen.

4. Cattle Representing Abundance and Prosperity

The presence of cattle in Scripture often signifies a period of abundance and God’s favor.

Scripture:
“And I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and you shall eat your bread to the full and dwell in your land safely.” (Leviticus 26:4-5)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, may we never forget that all prosperity comes from You. Help us to be grateful for the abundance in our lives. Amen.

Bible Verses About Vessels

5. God’s Control Over All Cattle

Scripture teaches that God has authority over all creation, including cattle, illustrating His sovereignty.

Scripture:
“For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.” (Psalm 50:10)

Prayer:
God, remind us that everything belongs to You. May we be good stewards of all You’ve entrusted to us. Amen.

6. Cattle as a Source of Nourishment

Cattle were a vital source of food in biblical times, symbolizing God’s provision of physical nourishment.

Scripture:
“Then he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the Lord; the fat thereof, and the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone.” (Leviticus 3:9)

Prayer:
Lord, we thank You for the daily sustenance You provide. Help us to remember that You are our ultimate source of nourishment. Amen.

7. The Wisdom of Caring for Cattle

The Bible encourages the proper care and management of cattle, reflecting God’s concern for responsible stewardship.

Scripture:
“Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds.” (Proverbs 27:23)

Prayer:
Dear God, give us wisdom to manage the resources You’ve given us with care and diligence. Amen.

8. The Plague on Cattle in Egypt

One of the plagues in Egypt was directed at the cattle, demonstrating God’s power over life and judgment.

Scripture:
“And the Lord did that thing on the morrow, and all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the children of Israel died not one.” (Exodus 9:6)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to remember that Your power and justice are unmatched. May we live in a way that honors Your authority. Amen.

9. Cattle in Times of Restoration

Cattle are also mentioned during times of restoration and rebuilding, symbolizing renewed blessing.

Scripture:
“The oxen likewise and the young asses that ear the ground shall eat clean provender, which hath been winnowed with the shovel and with the fan.” (Isaiah 30:24)

Prayer:
Lord, during times of restoration, remind us of Your promises. Renew our spirits as You provide for us. Amen.

10. The Importance of Sabbath Rest for Cattle

God commanded that even cattle should rest on the Sabbath, emphasizing the importance of rest for all creation.

Scripture:
“But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates.” (Exodus 20:10)

Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for the gift of rest. Help us to honor Your command for Sabbath rest for ourselves and all in our care. Amen.

11. Cattle as a Blessing in the Promised Land

Cattle were a significant part of the Promised Land’s blessing, representing abundance and prosperity.

Scripture:
“A land of wheat, and barley, and vines, and fig trees, and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey; a land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any thing in it; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass.” (Deuteronomy 8:8-9)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the blessings You provide in our lives. Help us to recognize and be thankful for the abundance You have given us. Amen.

12. God’s Promise of Rain for Cattle

God’s provision of rain for the crops and cattle shows His care for all creation.

Scripture:
“I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.” (Leviticus 26:4)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing all we need. May we always trust in Your timing and care for us. Amen.

13. Caring for the Well-being of Cattle

The Bible emphasizes the humane treatment of animals, including cattle, as part of responsible stewardship.

Scripture:
“A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” (Proverbs 12:10)

Prayer:
Lord, give us compassion and wisdom to care for all living creatures with kindness and responsibility. Amen.

14. Cattle in the Wilderness Journey

Cattle were part of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, representing God’s provision even in difficult times.

Scripture:
“And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness. And they took a great number of cattle.” (Exodus 12:37-38)

Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for Your faithfulness in every season of life, even in the wilderness. Help us to trust in Your provision. Amen.

15. The Power of God’s Blessing on Livestock

God’s blessing on livestock brings prosperity and ensures the well-being of His people.

Scripture:
“And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.” (Ezekiel 36:30)

Prayer:
Father, bless the work of our hands and the resources we have. May we honor You with the increase You provide. Amen.

16. Sacrificing the Best of Cattle

In offerings, God required the best cattle, symbolizing giving our best to Him.

Scripture:
“And he shall bring it to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, that he may be accepted before the Lord.” (Leviticus 3:2)

Prayer:
Lord, may we always offer You our best in every aspect of our lives, knowing that You are worthy of our greatest gifts. Amen.

17. God’s Care for Cattle During the Flood

Even in the flood, God ensured the survival of cattle, showing His care for all creatures.

Scripture:
“And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female.” (Genesis 6:19)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for Your care for all of creation. Help us to trust in Your protection, no matter the circumstances. Amen.

18. God’s Provision of Grass for Cattle

God provides food for cattle, illustrating His care for even the smallest needs.

Scripture:
“He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man.” (Psalm 104:14)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing for all our needs. Teach us to rely on You daily. Amen.

19. Cattle in Parables: Lessons from the Ox

Jesus used cattle in parables to teach spiritual lessons, showing the wisdom of using everyday experiences for understanding.

Scripture:
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” (Matthew 11:29)

Prayer:
Lord, help us to learn from Your teachings and apply them to our lives. Guide us in humility and wisdom. Amen.

20. Cattle and the Sabbath Year

The Sabbath year was a time of rest for the land and cattle, emphasizing God’s provision through rest.

Scripture:
“But in the seventh year shall be a sabbath of rest unto the land, a sabbath for the Lord: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard.” (Leviticus 25:4)

Prayer:
God, remind us of the importance of rest and trust in Your provision. Help us to honor the cycles of work and rest that You have established. Amen.

21. The Dedication of Cattle at the Temple

Cattle were dedicated at the temple as a form of worship and dedication to God.

Scripture:
“And they offered sacrifices unto the Lord, even a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their drink offerings, and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel.” (1 Chronicles 29:21)

Prayer:
Lord, may our lives be dedicated to You as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing in Your sight. Amen.

22. God’s Provision in the Land of Goshen

In the land of Goshen, God provided safety and abundance for the Israelites and their cattle.

Scripture:
“Only in the land of Goshen, where the children of Israel were, was there no hail.” (Exodus 9:26)

Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for Your protection and provision. Keep us safe in the places where You have placed us. Amen.

23. Rejoicing Over God’s Blessing of Cattle

The Bible often describes rejoicing and thankfulness for the blessings of cattle and provision.

Scripture:
“Thou shalt eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord thy God, that hath dealt wondrously with you.” (Joel 2:26)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness and the abundance You provide. May our hearts be filled with gratitude. Amen.

24. Cattle as Evidence of God’s Faithfulness

The prosperity of cattle was often seen as evidence of God’s faithfulness to His promises.

Scripture:
“And the Lord shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground.” (Deuteronomy 28:11)

Prayer:
Lord, help us to trust in Your promises and to see Your faithfulness in every area of our lives. Amen.

25. The Joy of Harvest and Cattle

The joy of a successful harvest often included the celebration of cattle, a sign of God’s blessing.

Scripture:
“The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing.” (Psalm 65:13)

Prayer:
Father, thank You for the seasons of joy and abundance. Help us to rejoice in Your blessings and share them with others. 

26. God’s Protection of Cattle from Plagues

During the plagues in Egypt, God showed His power by sparing the cattle of the Israelites, protecting them from harm.

Scripture:
“And the Lord shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that is the children’s of Israel.” (Exodus 9:4)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your protection over our lives. Help us to trust in Your care and to seek refuge in You during times of trial. Amen.

27. Cattle and the Year of Jubilee

The Year of Jubilee was a time of freedom and rest, not just for people but also for cattle, reflecting God’s mercy.

Scripture:
“In the year of this jubile ye shall return every man unto his possession.” (Leviticus 25:13)

Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for times of renewal and freedom. Help us to rest in Your grace and extend mercy to others as You have shown to us. Amen.

28. Wisdom in Managing Cattle

Managing cattle was a sign of wisdom and diligence, reflecting good stewardship.

Scripture:
“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” (Proverbs 27:23)

Prayer:
Lord, grant us wisdom in managing all that You have entrusted to us, whether it be our resources, time, or relationships. Amen.

29. Abraham’s Wealth Measured by Cattle

Abraham’s wealth, blessed by God, was often measured by the abundance of his cattle.

Scripture:
“And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.” (Genesis 13:2)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You bestow upon us. May we use them to serve You and others generously. Amen.

30. The Increase of Cattle as a Sign of God’s Favor

The Bible often depicts the increase of cattle as a sign of God’s favor and provision for His people.

Scripture:
“And he had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.” (Genesis 30:43)

Prayer:
Lord, help us to recognize Your favor in our lives and to remain humble and grateful for all You provide. Amen.

31. God’s Concern for Every Living Creature

God’s care extends to every living creature, including cattle, showing His love for all creation.

Scripture:
“Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth forever.” (Psalm 136:25)

Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for Your mercy that covers all creation. Teach us to care for the world You have entrusted to us. Amen.

32. The Role of Cattle in Jacob’s Prosperity

Jacob’s prosperity was marked by God’s blessing on his flocks and cattle.

Scripture:
“And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.” (Genesis 30:43)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your guidance and provision. May we be faithful stewards of the blessings You grant us. Amen.

33. The Use of Cattle for Offerings

Cattle were often used for burnt offerings, signifying devotion and worship to God.

Scripture:
“And he shall kill the bullock before the Lord: and the priests, Aaron’s sons, shall bring the blood, and sprinkle the blood round about upon the altar.” (Leviticus 1:5)

Prayer:
Lord, we offer our hearts and lives to You. Help us to live in a way that honors You in all we do. Amen.

34. Cattle as Evidence of a Righteous Life

A righteous life was sometimes marked by prosperity in livestock, indicating God’s favor.

Scripture:
“And his substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she-asses, and a very great household.” (Job 1:3)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, let our lives reflect Your righteousness. May we live in a way that pleases You and leads to Your blessings. Amen.

35. God’s Promise to Multiply Cattle

God promised to multiply the cattle of His people as a sign of His covenant blessings.

Scripture:
“And I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and bring fruit.” (Ezekiel 36:11)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your promises of abundance. Help us to be faithful to Your word and to trust in Your provision. Amen.

36. The Responsibility of Shepherds

Shepherds were responsible for caring for cattle and sheep, symbolizing leadership and guidance.

Scripture:
“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers.” (Acts 20:28)

Prayer:
Dear God, give us the wisdom to lead and care for others well. Help us to be faithful shepherds in whatever role You have called us to. Amen.

37. Trusting God for Provision

The Israelites relied on God to provide for their cattle during their journey to the Promised Land.

Scripture:
“He brought forth his people with joy, and his chosen with gladness: And gave them the lands of the heathen.” (Psalm 105:43-44)

Prayer:
Lord, teach us to trust in Your provision, no matter where we are or what we face. Amen.

38. Cattle as a Symbol of Wealth in Proverbs

In the Book of Proverbs, cattle are often linked to wealth and prosperity, encouraging wise management.

Scripture:
“The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the people with low-income is their poverty.” (Proverbs 10:15)

Prayer:
God, grant us wisdom to manage our resources wisely. Let us not put our trust in riches but in You alone. Amen.

39. Celebrating God’s Blessing Through Livestock

Feasts and celebrations in the Bible often involved cattle, showing gratitude for God’s blessings.

Scripture:
“And thou shalt rejoice in thy feast, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite.” (Deuteronomy 16:14)

Prayer:
Father, may we always remember to celebrate Your goodness and share the blessings You give us with others. Amen.

40. Learning Patience from Cattle

Patience and care in raising cattle were valued in Biblical times, symbolizing the virtues of perseverance.

Scripture:
“The husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.” (James 5:7)

Prayer:
Lord, give us patience and perseverance in our endeavors. Teach us to wait on Your perfect timing. Amen.

41. God’s Faithfulness in Providing Pasture

God’s provision of pasture for cattle reflects His care for all creation.

Scripture:
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” (Psalm 23:2)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for leading us to places of rest and provision. Help us to find peace in Your care. Amen.

42. Trusting in God’s Abundance

Cattle in the Bible often represent God’s abundant blessings, encouraging trust in His provision.

Scripture:
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.” (Psalm 23:5)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the abundance You provide. May we always trust in Your generous provision. Amen.

43. The Beauty of Creation Seen in Cattle

The Bible highlights the beauty of God’s creation, including cattle, as a reflection of His craftsmanship.

Scripture:
“O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.” (Psalm 104:24)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, open our eyes to see the beauty of Your creation. Let us appreciate the wonder of all You have made. Amen.

44. God’s Blessing in the Agricultural Cycle

The success of crops and livestock reflects God’s blessing in the agricultural cycle, providing for the needs of His people.

Scripture:
“And the Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto.” (Deuteronomy 28:8)

Prayer:
Lord, bless the work of our hands and all that we do. May we honor You in every season of life. Amen.

45. The Final Sacrifice: Jesus as the Lamb of God

In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the Lamb of God, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice and fulfillment of the old sacrificial system involving cattle.

Scripture:
“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29)

Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, for the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. May we live in the freedom and grace provided by His sacrifice. Amen.

Answer To Key Question

1. What does the Bible say about the importance of cattle?

Cattle are often seen as a symbol of wealth, provision, and sacrifice, reflecting God’s blessings and care.

2. Why were cattle used in sacrifices in the Old Testament?

They were seen as valuable offerings, representing atonement and dedication to God.

3. How does the Bible illustrate God’s provision through cattle?

Scripture uses cattle to symbolize God’s provision, abundance, and care for His people.

4. What lesson can we learn from the Sabbath rest for cattle?

God values rest for all creation, teaching us the importance of regular rest and renewal.

5. How does caring for cattle relate to biblical stewardship?

Proper care of cattle is a sign of responsible stewardship, reflecting a Godly character.

6. What does the plague on cattle in Egypt symbolize?

It demonstrates God’s authority and the distinction He made between His people and others.

Conclusion

Cattle play a profound and multifaceted role in the Bible, serving as symbols of God’s provision, sacrifice, and stewardship. They are a reminder of the abundance God offers and the responsibility that comes with His blessings.

By understanding the significance of cattle in Scripture, we can draw closer to God and appreciate His divine provision in our lives. May these verses and prayers guide us in recognizing the ways God provides and calls us to be stewards of His gifts.