Matthew 7:6
Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
Matthew 7:6
This proverb cautions against exposing sacred truths to those who will misuse or devalue them. “Dogs” and “swine” symbolize those who are hostile or cynical toward sacred matters. The call is to wisdom in discernment about when and how to share what is holy and precious. The cultural setting reflects common Jewish wisdom about discarding pearls before the unworthy as dangerous.
The verse touches on the mystery of human receptivity and the responsibility to steward revelation. It recognizes that some hearers will reject or abuse truth, and that discernment is required to protect the vulnerable and keep sacred things from exploitation.
Apply by assessing readiness and receptivity before sharing deeply personal faith insights. In conversations about faith, gauge openness, avoid coercion, and offer resources for genuine engagement rather than coercive persuasion. When encountering cynics, choose constructive dialogue and boundaries, not forced confrontation.
Cross-References: Proverbs 9:7–9; 1 Corinthians 9:19–23; Matthew 10:14; 2 Timothy 4:2