Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:The term "hawk" appears in the Bible primarily in the context of the Old Testament, where it is mentioned among the unclean birds that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. The hawk is noted for its keen eyesight and swift flight, characteristics that have made it a symbol of vigilance and speed. Levitical Law: In the book of Leviticus, the hawk is listed among the birds that are considered unclean for consumption. Leviticus 11:13-19 states: "These you shall regard as detestable among the birds; they must not be eaten because they are detestable: the eagle, the bearded vulture, the black vulture, the kite, any kind of falcon, every kind of raven, the ostrich, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk..." This passage underscores the hawk's classification among birds that were not to be part of the Israelite diet, reflecting the broader dietary laws given to the people of Israel. Symbolism and Characteristics: The hawk is often associated with attributes such as sharp vision and swiftness. These characteristics are highlighted in the book of Job, where the hawk's ability to soar and navigate the skies is used to illustrate the wisdom and power of God. Job 39:26 asks, "Does the hawk take flight by your understanding and spread his wings toward the south?" This rhetorical question emphasizes the divine wisdom and control over creation, suggesting that the hawk's natural abilities are a testament to God's intricate design. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, hawks were known for their hunting prowess and were often seen as symbols of power and precision. Their presence in biblical texts reflects the broader cultural understanding of these birds as creatures of significance and awe. The Israelites, living in a region where hawks were common, would have been familiar with their behavior and characteristics, making the biblical references to hawks both relevant and illustrative. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of hawks in the Bible serves to remind believers of God's sovereignty over creation. The hawk's ability to fly and hunt with precision is not attributed to its own understanding but to the wisdom and provision of the Creator. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God's omnipotence and the orderliness of His creation. Conclusion: While the hawk is not a central figure in biblical narratives, its inclusion in the Scriptures provides insight into the natural world as understood by the ancient Israelites. The hawk's characteristics and the laws concerning it offer a glimpse into the cultural and religious life of the biblical era, as well as the theological truths about God's creation and His laws for His people. Library What Carey did for Science --Founder of the Agricultural and ... Judging, Asking, and Giving The Unsatisfied Life and Its Remedy Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Thesaurus Hawk's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Hawk's (1 Occurrence). Job 28:7 No bird has knowledge of it, and the hawk's eye has never seen it. (BBE). ... /h/hawk's.htm - 6k Hay (5 Occurrences) Principal (28 Occurrences) Cast (640 Occurrences) Hood Hawks (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hawk's (1 Occurrence)Job 28:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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