Topical Encyclopedia The cormorant is a bird mentioned in the Bible among those that are considered unclean and therefore forbidden as food for the Israelites. The prohibition against consuming the cormorant is found in the dietary laws given to the Israelites, which are detailed in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy.Biblical References: 1. Leviticus 11:13-19 : "These are the birds you are to detest and not eat because they are detestable: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the red kite, any kind of black kite, any kind of raven, the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat." 2. Deuteronomy 14:12-18 : "But these are the ones you may not eat: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the red kite, any kind of black kite, any kind of raven, the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, the little owl, the great owl, the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, the cormorant, the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat." Description and Characteristics: The cormorant is a large, fish-eating bird known for its excellent diving ability. It is characterized by its long neck, hooked bill, and predominantly dark plumage. Cormorants are often seen perched with their wings spread out to dry after diving for fish. They are found in various parts of the world, typically inhabiting coastal regions, rivers, and lakes. Symbolism and Interpretation: In the biblical context, the cormorant is grouped with other birds of prey and scavengers, which are considered unclean. The classification of the cormorant as unclean is consistent with the broader biblical theme of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals, a distinction that underscores the call for holiness and separation from practices deemed impure or defiling. The prohibition against eating the cormorant, along with other unclean birds, serves as a reminder of the Israelites' covenantal relationship with God, which required adherence to specific dietary laws as a sign of obedience and dedication to God's commandments. These laws were intended to set the Israelites apart from other nations and to promote a lifestyle that reflected their unique identity as God's chosen people. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient times, dietary laws played a significant role in the daily lives of the Israelites. The distinction between clean and unclean animals was not only a matter of physical health but also of spiritual significance. The cormorant, as a bird associated with water and often seen in desolate places, may have been viewed as symbolically linked to chaos and impurity, further justifying its classification as unclean. The cormorant's inclusion in the list of forbidden birds highlights the comprehensive nature of the dietary laws, which covered a wide range of animals and emphasized the importance of ritual purity. These laws were part of the broader Mosaic Law, which governed various aspects of life for the Israelites and reinforced their identity as a people set apart for God's purposes. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 11:17And the little owl, and the cormorant, and the great owl, Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 14:17 Isaiah 34:11 Zephaniah 2:14 Library Whether There was any Reasonable Cause for the Ceremonial ... Resources Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgCormorant: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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