The Bible does not explicitly state whether or not it is permissible to keep pets in the house. However, there are a number of passages that can be interpreted as either supporting or prohibiting the practice.

What Does the Bible Say About Pets in the House?

The Case for Pets in the House

There are a number of passages in the Bible that can be interpreted as supporting the idea of keeping pets in the house.

1. **God created animals to be companions to humans.** In Genesis 2:19, God brings all of the animals to Adam and Eve and tells them to name them. This suggests that animals were created to be more than just food or beasts of burden. They were also created to be companions to humans.

2. **Jesus loved animals.** In Mark 10:13-16, Jesus welcomes children and their pets into his presence. This shows that Jesus had a positive view of animals and that he did not see them as being unclean or unworthy of his love.

3. **The Bible mentions pets in a positive light.** In several places, the Bible mentions pets in a positive light. For example, in Proverbs 12:10, it says that "a righteous man cares for the needs of his animals." This suggests that it is not only acceptable to keep pets, but it is also a good thing to do.

The Case Against Pets in the House

There are also a number of passages in the Bible that can be interpreted as prohibiting the practice of keeping pets in the house.

1. **The Bible prohibits the eating of unclean animals.** In Leviticus 11, God gives a list of animals that are considered to be unclean. These animals are not to be eaten. Some people interpret this passage as also prohibiting the keeping of these animals in the house.

2. **The Bible warns against idolatry.** In Exodus 20:3-5, God commands the Israelites not to worship any other gods. Some people interpret this passage as also prohibiting the keeping of pets, since pets can become objects of affection and worship.

3. **The Bible teaches that humans are to have dominion over the animals.** In Genesis 1:26-28, God gives humans dominion over the animals. Some people interpret this passage as meaning that humans are to use animals for their own benefit, and that keeping pets is therefore not a good idea.

Conclusion

The Bible does not explicitly state whether or not it is permissible to keep pets in the house. There are passages that can be interpreted as supporting the practice, and there are also passages that can be interpreted as prohibiting it. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to keep a pet is a personal one that each individual must make for themselves.