Gospel in Art: Do not throw your pearls in front of pigs

Casting pearls before swines (from Flemish Proverbs series) by Pieter Brueghel the Younger, after 1600 © Wikimedia / Dorotheum Vienna

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 25 June 2024
Matthew 7:6, 12-14

Jesus said to his disciples: 'Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls in front of pigs, or they may trample them and then turn on you and tear you to pieces.

'So always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.

'Enter by the narrow gate, since the road that leads to perdition is wide and spacious, and many take it; but it is a narrow gate and a hard road that leads to life, and only a few find it.'

Reflection on the painting

In our Gospel reading today, Jesus tells us, 'Do not throw your pearls in front of pigs'. What a graphic and strong image! Jesus means that we should not waste good things on people who will not appreciate them. This does not mean that we have to hold back from witnessing to the Gospel and sharing the Good News with people who might be sceptical. Jesus himself ate with and taught sinners, prostitutes and tax collectors. We are to share the Gospel, but, when it becomes apparent that it is not welcome, we are to move on. That is a judgement call we each have to make: when to move on in a particular situation.

Pearls in ancient times were considered extremely valuable, much as they are today. They are symbols of great worth, beauty, and rarity. In this context, the "pearls" can be seen as representing the precious truths and gifts of our faith, including the teachings of Jesus and the sacraments. Jesus' metaphor highlights the need for discernment in how and where we share these precious gifts. Pigs, in the cultural context of Jesus' time, were considered unclean animals, incapable of appreciating the value of pearls. They would not recognise the worth of any pearls that were thrown before them; indeed, they might even trample them underfoot and turn aggressively on the one who cast them. I'd like to think, however, that with every gentle witnessing we do of the Gospel, whether by word or deed, something will touch the audience or the person listening. Even the tiniest little pearl has potential to shine.

Our very small painting is by Pieter Brueghel the Younger. We see a richly dressed man casting large pearls before swine. But he still holds plenty more in his apron. Maybe soon he will stop casting the pearls once he notices that the pigs are taking no notice. This painting fits into a series of "Flemish Proverbs" painting Brueghel the Younger did, illustrating a multitude of proverbs and folk sayings (often based on the Gospels) within a single composition, creating a rich tapestry of visual storytelling. These paintings offer insight into the values, humour, and wisdom of Renaissance society.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-7-6-12-14-2024/