80 SCRIPTURE NATURAL HISTORY. 



held in such contempt by the Jews, was, that it formed a conspicu- 

 ous figure among the divinities of ancient Egypt. 



It is well known, that the Turks also reckon the dog an unclean 

 and filthy creature, and drive him from their houses. In Turkey, 

 therefore, dogs are in common, not belonging to any particular own- 

 ers, and guard rather the streets and districts than particular houses. 

 This, indeed, seems to be the common treatment they meet with in 

 the East ; for even in Egypt they are now as much abhorred as 

 they were formerly venerated. An idea may be formed in what 

 detestation it is held in that country, when it is seen, that the most 

 scurrilous epithet which they bestow on a European or a Christian 

 is a dog. Compare 1 Sam. xvii. 43 ; xxiv. 14 ; 2 Sam. xvi. 9 ; 2 

 Kings viii. 13, &c. 



To the prowling of these deserted and houseless animals the 

 Psalmist evidently alludes , in speaking of his enemies, who way- 

 laid his steps and watched for his life : l They return at the even- 

 ing ; they make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city,' 

 (Psalm lix. 6) ; and viewing, in the spirit of prophecy, their future 

 punishment and destitution, he adds, ' And at evening let them re- 

 turn ; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go-round about 

 the city. Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if 

 they be not satisfied,' ver. 14, 15. 



In the sacred writings, the reproachful epithet of dog is applied 

 to the Gentiles, who were without the covenant of promise, (Matt, 

 xiv. 26) ; to the despisers of religion, (ch. vii. 6) ; to the worldly 

 and carnal professors who had thrust themselves into the minis- 

 terial office, (Phil. iii. 2) ; and to relentless persecutors, Ps. xxii. 

 16, 20. 



