The History and Symbolism Behind the Christmas Donkey

Every December, most of us see donkeys placed quietly at the edges of nativity scenes. They stand in the background: humble, steady, almost unnoticed. And yet, if you are like me, you may have wondered why this modest animal appears so prominently in Christmas imagery. Today, I felt inspired to look deeper into the history, meaning, and symbolism behind the donkey, and what this gentle creature can teach us during the Christmas season.

Ancient Roots: A Creature of Strength and Wisdom

Donkeys have walked beside humanity for thousands of years. They appear in nearly every major religion and in countless myths, with each culture highlighting a different aspect of their character.

In ancient Egypt, donkeys were associated with the god Set, the deity of chaos, storm, and the desert. This early link reflects a trait that echoes through history: donkeys have a mind of their own. They are loyal and hardworking, yet discerning. As I’ve learned from working with our own donkeys, they are diligent partners, but they can surprise you without warning – much like a sudden storm. Their occasional unpredictability is often a reminder that their companionship is a choice we should never take for granted.

In ancient Greece, donkeys were closely associated with Dionysus, the god of wine and festivity. He was often depicted riding a donkey, a symbol of “good labor,” fruitful vineyards, and the earth’s generosity. Donkeys formed the backbone of agriculture. More common than horses, they worked steadily and reliably in fields and vineyards, performing their tasks diligently without expectation of reward. Though often overlooked, their tireless labor, offered freely and faithfully, was essential to the success of the harvest and the production of wine.

In Mesopotamia, donkeys were indispensable pack animals. Their ability to carry heavy burdens, whether physical, symbolic, or spiritual, led many to view them as both mentally and physically resilient. They helped bear not only the burdens of labor but also the emotional and spiritual weight carried by their human partners.

Across many African cultures, donkeys are admired for their ability to thrive in harsh conditions. They endure scorching heat, scarce food, and little water, becoming enduring symbols of survival, intelligence, and quiet strength.

Over time, donkeys have been labeled as stubborn. But perhaps “stubborn” is simply another word for discerning, careful, and self-possessed. Folklore often places them alongside clever animals like foxes and hares, capable of outwitting any danger with a mixture of patience and shrewdness.

Donkeys in Sacred Texts

Across the world’s great religions, donkeys appear not merely as working animals but as figures with deep spiritual significance. Their humility, endurance, and quiet intelligence make them powerful symbols in stories that teach moral and spiritual lessons.

In the Qur’an, donkeys are mentioned as part of God’s creation intended to benefit humanity. Surah An-Nahl (16:8) refers to them as animals “created for you to ride and as adornment.” This verse emphasizes their role as loyal companions and dependable workers, creatures that help sustain human life through transportation and labor. But within Islamic commentary and cultural tradition, the donkey also becomes a symbol of humility. Unlike animals associated with pride or power, the donkey represents simplicity and service. Some scholars note the contrast between the donkey’s humble nature and the human tendency toward arrogance; the animal becomes a gentle reminder to approach life with gratitude, modesty, and awareness of the blessings provided to us. 

In Jewish tradition, the story of Balaam’s donkey (Numbers 22) stands out as one of the most vivid examples of an animal demonstrating spiritual insight. Balaam, a prophet, sets out on a journey displeasing to God. As he rides, an angel blocks the path, but Balaam cannot see it. His donkey, however, immediately recognizes the danger and refuses to move forward. Three times the donkey stops, turns aside, or presses against a wall to avoid the angel. Balaam grows angry and strikes the animal, unaware that it is trying to save his life. Finally, God allows the donkey to speak, revealing the truth. Only then does Balaam’s own vision open, and he understands the importance of the donkey’s wise intervention. 

This story serves as a reminder that wisdom can come in unexpected forms. The donkey is spiritually perceptive and able to sense things when humans cannot. It challenges the idea that humans are wiser than animals, and it illustrates loyalty, as the donkey chooses to protect Balaam even when he was unappreciative of the help. 

The Donkey at Christmas: A Symbol of Humility and Hope

Though Scripture does not explicitly mention a donkey at Jesus’ birth, Christian tradition places one beside Mary on the journey to Bethlehem and near the manger on that holy night. In this role, the donkey becomes a quiet witness to God entering the world in the simplest of circumstances. In nativity scenes, the donkey represents gentle presence, compassion, and humble service; reminding us that the heart of Christmas often lies in small, faithful acts of love rather than grand gestures.

The donkey appears again later in Jesus’ life during his entry into Jerusalem, riding a young donkey in fulfillment of the prophecy: “See, your king comes to you… lowly and riding on a donkey.” In a world where kings rode warhorses to display power, Jesus’ choice of a humble animal carried deep meaning. It signaled a kingdom built on humility rather than domination, gentleness rather than force, and sacrificial love rather than worldly authority.

What the Christmas Donkey Teaches Us

During the Christmas season, the donkey’s image appears everywhere, on cards, in nativity sets, and in children’s stories. Yet its presence invites us to look beyond and consider its deeper meaning. Throughout history, the donkey has worked beside humanity not through coercion, but through trust. Discerning and observant, donkeys choose their companions and remain steadfast partners.

Because of this, the donkey naturally reflects the heart of Christmas. It embodies humility, showing us that true greatness is often found in simplicity. Its perseverance reveals the quiet dignity of bearing burdens with grace. Its faithfulness illustrates the value of walking alongside others, and its gentle strength demonstrates that resilience does not need to be loud to be powerful.

As we reflect on the holiday season, the donkey encourages us to embrace humility, meet challenges with grace, and offer steady, heartfelt support to those around us. In many ways, this humble creature carries within it the very essence of Christmas—a living symbol of hope woven into the very center of the holiday.