The partridge is a bird mentioned in the Bible, known for its distinctive call and behavior. It is referenced in the context of illustrating moral and spiritual lessons, particularly in the Old Testament. The partridge is not a central figure in biblical narratives but serves as a metaphor in the teachings of the prophets.

1 Samuel 26:20 :
In this passage, David compares himself to a partridge being hunted in the mountains. He says, "Now do not let my blood fall to the ground far from the presence of the LORD. For the king of Israel has come out to search for a single flea, just as one hunts a partridge in the mountains." Here, the partridge symbolizes vulnerability and the relentless pursuit by King Saul, highlighting David's innocence and the futility of Saul's efforts against God's anointed.

Jeremiah 17:11 :
The prophet Jeremiah uses the partridge to convey a message about unjust gain and the consequences of deceit. The verse states, "Like a partridge hatching eggs it did not lay is the man who makes a fortune unjustly; in the middle of his days his riches will desert him, and in the end he will be a fool." This imagery suggests that just as a partridge may sit on eggs it did not lay, so too do those who acquire wealth through dishonest means find their gains ultimately fleeting and unfulfilling.

Symbolism and Interpretation:
In biblical literature, the partridge is often associated with themes of pursuit, vulnerability, and the futility of unjust actions. The bird's behavior, particularly its nesting habits, serves as a poignant metaphor for the consequences of deceit and the transient nature of ill-gotten wealth. The partridge's mention in these scriptures underscores the moral teachings of the prophets, emphasizing the importance of integrity and the inevitable downfall of those who pursue unrighteous paths.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The partridge was a familiar bird in the ancient Near East, known for its elusive nature and distinctive call. Its presence in the biblical text reflects the everyday experiences and observations of the people during that time. The use of the partridge in metaphorical language would have resonated with the original audience, who would have been familiar with the bird's characteristics and behavior.

In summary, the partridge in the Bible serves as a metaphorical tool to convey deeper spiritual truths, illustrating the themes of pursuit, vulnerability, and the consequences of unjust actions. Through its use, the scriptures impart lessons on the importance of righteousness and the ultimate futility of deceit.1 Samuel 26:20
Now therefore, let not my blood fall to the earth before the face of the LORD: for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one does hunt a partridge in the mountains.
Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 17:11
As the partridge sits on eggs, and hatches them not; so he that gets riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the middle of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.
Nave's Topical Index

The Cambridge Platform and the Half-Way Covenant
... The draft by Ralph Partridge of Plymouth still exists ... which New England church life
in general had developed ... asserting the rules given by the Scriptures, had not ...
/.../chapter iv the cambridge platform.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... It is concerning one old Tod, that was hanged ... Reading the Scriptures, hearing sermons,
godly conference, repeating ... evil of cursing ariseth in general from the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

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