In the Bible, the “mule” (referred to as “baghala” in some translations) is not a wild donkey, but a hybrid animal resulting from the mating of a horse and a donkey. This hybrid was valued for its unique traits, distinct from both the horse and the donkey, as it combined the strength and endurance of the horse with the patience and resilience of the donkey.
The term “baghala” appears in 2 Kings 5:16, where the prophet Elisha refuses Naaman’s offer of gifts after Naaman’s healing. The passage reads:
2 Kings 5:16
“But he said, ‘As the Lord lives, before whom I stand, I will receive nothing.’ And even though he urged him to take it, he refused.”
In 2 Kings 5:17, Naaman responds with an unusual request:
2 Kings 5:17
“Naaman said, ‘If not, then please let your servant have two mule loads of earth, because your servant will no longer offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other gods, but to the Lord.’”
Theologically, this act of Naaman requesting “two mule loads of earth” is deeply symbolic. Naaman, a Gentile commander, recognizes the Lord God of Israel as the one true God after his miraculous healing. By asking for earth from Israel, Naaman expresses his desire to worship God properly, recognizing the sanctity of the land and the act of offering sacrifices on holy ground. The mules, carrying the earth, represent the humble yet significant means by which Naaman seeks to live out his new faith in the one true God.
In biblical history, the use of mules became more widespread among the Israelites, especially in later times, as they were found to be more reliable than horses and donkeys in certain tasks. Mules are known for their endurance and ability to carry heavy loads over long distances, making them useful for both agricultural and military purposes.
Here are a few more Bible passages where mules are mentioned:
Psalm 32:9
“Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding, whose mouths must be held with bit and bridle, or else they will not come near you.”
In this verse, the psalmist contrasts the stubbornness of the horse and mule with the need for humans to yield to God’s guidance. Theologically, this is a call for humility and understanding in our relationship with God. Just as a mule requires a bit to be guided, so too should believers submit to God’s direction and not be stiff-necked or rebellious.
Ezra 2:66
“Their horses numbered seven hundred and thirty-six, and their mules two hundred and forty-five.”
This verse, while providing a census of the returned exiles, also highlights the role of mules in daily life during the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Mules were not only seen as work animals but also represented the strength and resources required to restore the nation after the Babylonian exile. Theologically, this can symbolize God’s provision for His people as they rebuild their lives and their faith in Him.
2 Samuel 18:9
“Now Absalom met the servants of David. Absalom was riding on a mule, and the mule went under the thick branches of a great tree. His head caught in the tree, and he was left hanging between heaven and earth, while the mule went on.”
This tragic incident of Absalom’s death highlights the significance of the mule in royal and military contexts. Theologically, Absalom’s tragic end symbolizes the consequences of pride and rebellion. Absalom, who had risen up against his father David, meets a disgraceful death, caught in a tree while riding a mule. His death marks the ultimate failure of his attempts to usurp God’s anointed king, David.
1 Kings 10:25
“And they brought every man his gift, articles of silver and gold, garments, weapons, spices, horses, and mules, each year as a regular tribute.”
Mules are mentioned here as part of the tribute to King Solomon. Theologically, this shows how mules, like other valuable commodities, were part of the wealth and power associated with Solomon’s reign. They symbolized the prosperity and peace that came from God’s blessings on His people under a wise and just king.