MATTHEW 7:6
PEARLS BEFORE SWINE
Text – Matthew 7:6
6 “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
Introduction
After warning against hypocritical judgment, Jesus offers a brief yet profound proverb on the reverent handling of sacred truths (cf. Matthew 7:6). Using the striking imagery of “pearls before swine,” He teaches His disciples the necessity of discernment in sharing spiritual treasures. The “pearls” signify the precious wisdom and divine teachings of the Kingdom of God, while the “dogs” and “swine” represent those who, through hostility, contempt, or spiritual blindness, are unable or unwilling to receive such truths with reverence.
At first glance, Jesus’ words may seem harsh, but they reflect a deep understanding of both human nature and the sanctity of divine revelation. In the Jewish context, holy things associated with the Temple were reserved for consecrated use and protected from profanation. In the same way, Jesus calls His followers to treat sacred teachings with respect and prudence. While the Gospel is meant for all, it is not always received by all. This teaching invites believers to balance mercy with wisdom—sharing the Good News generously, yet discerning when silence or patience better serves the dignity of the message and the readiness of the listener.
Historical and Jewish Context
In Jewish culture, “dogs” and “swine” were symbols of impurity. Dogs were not domesticated as pets but scavengers, and pigs were ritually unclean animals forbidden in the Law (Leviticus 11:7). “What is holy” refers to sacred food or offerings, particularly those from the Temple sacrifices reserved for priests (Exodus 29:33). Throwing such things to unclean animals would have been seen as a grave act of desecration.
Jesus applies this imagery to the spiritual realm. “Holy things” and “pearls” symbolize divine wisdom and the truths of the Kingdom of Heaven (cf. Matthew 13:45–46). His warning does not express contempt for sinners but discernment toward those who persistently reject or ridicule what is sacred. Just as one would not cast precious jewels before animals that cannot recognize their value, disciples should not force sacred mysteries upon those unwilling to receive them.
Catholic Theological Perspective
In Catholic theology, this verse highlights the virtue of prudence and the reverence due to divine truth. The Word of God, the sacraments, and the mysteries of faith are treasures entrusted to the Church. They are to be shared with love and discernment, not trivialized or exposed to scorn. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2111, 2120) cautions against sacrilege—the profanation of what is holy—as a grave sin that dishonors God.
Jesus’ teaching also guides the Church’s pastoral wisdom. While the Gospel is for all, its reception depends on the openness of the heart. Evangelization must therefore respect human freedom and readiness. Similarly, participation in the sacraments—especially the Eucharist—requires proper disposition. St. Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 11:27–29, warning that the Body and Blood of Christ must not be received unworthily.
The “pearls” also symbolize the deep truths of Christian life—mercy, chastity, forgiveness—that are misunderstood or rejected by a world driven by pride and sensuality. The disciple must share truth with compassion, but not debate it in ways that degrade its holiness. The wisdom of the saints teaches that silence and witness can sometimes proclaim Christ more powerfully than argument.
Parallels in Scripture
Proverbs 9:7–8 – “Reprove not the arrogant, lest they hate you; reprove the wise, and they will love you.”
Matthew 13:45–46 – The parable of the pearl of great price.
2 Peter 2:22 – The dog returns to its vomit, and the sow to its wallowing in the mud.
1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept what pertains to the Spirit of God.”
Titus 3:10 – “After a first and second warning, have nothing more to do with a divisive person.”
Key Terms
Holy Things: Sacred realities such as divine teachings, sacraments, or acts of worship.
Pearls: Symbols of wisdom, purity, and the precious truths of God’s Kingdom.
Dogs and Swine: Metaphors for those who despise or reject divine truth.
Profanation: Treating the sacred as common or unworthy of reverence.
Prudence: The virtue that discerns the right time, place, and manner to act.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This verse is read during Ordinary Time, reminding the faithful to approach holy things with reverence. It underpins the Church’s discipline regarding the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, where proper disposition is required. It also appears in discussions of evangelization and catechesis—urging patience, respect, and prayerful discernment when sharing faith with others.
Conclusion
Jesus ultimately calls His followers to honor the holiness of God’s truth. The Gospel is a priceless treasure, not to be wasted, trivialized, or subjected to mockery, but to be offered with humility, prayer, and discernment. This teaching does not promote exclusion or elitism; rather, it emphasizes reverence for divine mysteries, which can only be truly received through faith and openness of heart.
The disciple’s mission is to sow the Word wisely, trusting not in personal persuasion alone but in the work of the Holy Spirit, who prepares hearts in His own time. By exercising prudence and love together, Christians safeguard the sanctity of the Gospel while remaining faithful to their call to witness—always ready to share, yet attentive to when and how that sharing bears the most fruit.
Reflection
Do I treat the truths of faith with reverence and gratitude? Jesus invites me to guard the sacred treasures of His word and sacraments with purity of heart. I must share them with love, never pride, and discern when silence may honor God more than speech. True wisdom lies in knowing when to speak and when to pray.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Holy One of God and the pearl of great price. Grant me the wisdom to honor Your truth and the courage to share it with love. Teach me reverence for what is sacred and discernment in proclaiming Your Word. May I always treasure Your mysteries in purity of heart and live them with humility. Amen.