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Donkey Sanctuary Information Sheet

Science - Ourselves

Information Sheet No. 1 – Why do donkeys have a cross on their back?

Some donkeys have a darker hair marking, in the shape of a cross, that runs down their back and each side of their shoulders. There are many theories as to why the cross is there and the following is just one suggestion.

On Good Friday, Jesus carried the cross to the hill of Calvary. Being a beast of burden, the little donkey wished he had been able to carry the cross for Jesus. Upset at the tragic event that was taking place, the donkey turned his back on the sight, but because of his love for Jesus he could not leave until it was all over.

As the sun was setting, the shadow of the cross fell on the donkey’s back. Since that time, donkeys have carried the mark of the cross as a sign of love from God. The reward the humble donkey received has forevermore been shown for all to see.

Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.Matthew 21:5