Matthew 7:6 states: "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces."
This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and can be understood as follows:
Discernment in Sharing Truths: Jesus emphasizes the importance of discerning when and with whom to share the sacred and valuable teachings of the faith. Not everyone will appreciate or respect these truths, and sharing them with those who are hostile or indifferent can lead to them being misunderstood or disrespected.
Symbolism of Dogs and Pigs: In the context of Jewish culture at the time, dogs and pigs were considered unclean animals. Referring to certain people as dogs or pigs symbolically indicates those who are spiritually insensitive or unreceptive.
Protection of the Sacred: The "sacred" and "pearls" represent precious and holy truths of the faith. Jesus teaches that these should be protected from being desecrated by those who are not in a position to value them.
Consequences of Misplaced Effort: The warning about trampling and tearing suggests that sharing sacred things with those who do not value them can lead to negative and harmful outcomes. It underscores the need to wisely choose where to invest one's spiritual efforts.
Overall, Matthew 7:6 encourages believers to exercise wisdom and discernment in their interactions, ensuring that the sacred teachings are shared with those who are open and receptive, thereby preserving their sanctity and preventing potential harm.
