The term "porpoise" is not directly mentioned in the Bible; however, it is often associated with the "sea cow" or "dugong," which is referenced in the context of the construction of the Tabernacle. In the Berean Standard Bible, the term "porpoise" is used in some translations to describe the type of leather used for the coverings of the Tabernacle.

Biblical References:

· Exodus 25:5 : "ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood." The "fine leather" mentioned here is sometimes translated as "porpoise skins" or "sea cow hides" in other versions. This material was used for the outer covering of the Tabernacle, indicating its durability and water-resistant properties, which were essential for the Israelites during their wilderness journey.

· Exodus 26:14 : "Also make for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather." Again, the "fine leather" is interpreted by some as referring to porpoise or sea cow skins, suggesting a protective layer over the sacred structure.

· Ezekiel 16:10 : "I clothed you with embroidered cloth and put sandals of fine leather on your feet. I wrapped you in fine linen and covered you with silk." The mention of "fine leather" in this passage is symbolic of God's provision and care, illustrating the use of high-quality materials for His people.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The use of porpoise or sea cow skins in the construction of the Tabernacle reflects the Israelites' access to materials that were both practical and luxurious. The skins were likely obtained through trade with coastal peoples or during their time in Egypt, where such materials would have been more readily available. The choice of durable and water-resistant skins underscores the need for protection against the elements during the Israelites' nomadic period.

Symbolism and Significance:

In the biblical narrative, the use of porpoise skins for the Tabernacle's covering can be seen as a symbol of God's protection and provision. The Tabernacle was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and the materials used in its construction were chosen to reflect His holiness and the reverence due to Him. The fine leather served as a physical barrier against the harsh conditions of the wilderness, just as God's presence provided spiritual protection and guidance.

Theological Implications:

Theologically, the use of porpoise skins in the Tabernacle's construction highlights the importance of using the best available resources for worship and the service of God. It reflects the principle that God deserves the finest offerings, and it serves as a reminder of His provision and care for His people. The Tabernacle, as a precursor to the Temple, foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity through Jesus Christ, who provides spiritual covering and protection for believers.

In summary, while the term "porpoise" itself does not appear in the Bible, its association with the materials used in the Tabernacle offers rich insights into the historical, cultural, and theological dimensions of the biblical text.1. (n.) Any small cetacean of the genus Phocaena, especially P. communis, or P. phocaena, of Europe, and the closely allied American species (P. Americana). The color is dusky or blackish above, paler beneath. They are closely allied to the dolphins, but have a shorter snout. Called also harbor porpoise, herring hag, puffing pig, and snuffer.

2. (n.) A true dolphin (Delphinus); -- often so called by sailors.

PORPOISE

por'-pus (the Revised Version margin has "porpoise-skin" for `or tachash, the Revised Version (British and American) "sealskin," the King James Version "badgers' skins" (Exodus 25:5; Exodus 26:14; Exodus 35:7, 23; 36:19:00; 39:34 Numbers 4:6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 25 Ezekiel 16:10)): The word denotes leather used in the furnishings of the tabernacle (for shoes in Ezekiel 16:10), and was probably the skin of the dugong, Halichore dugong, Arabic tukhas, which is found in the Red Sea.

See BADGER.

8476. tachash -- perhaps porpoise (a kind of leather or skin)
... 8475, 8476. tachash. 8477 . perhaps porpoise (a kind of leather or skin).
Transliteration: tachash Phonetic Spelling: (takh'-ash) Short Definition: porpoise ...
/hebrew/8476.htm - 6k

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

Porpoise (14 Occurrences)
... They are closely allied to the dolphins, but have a shorter snout. Called also
harbor porpoise, herring hag, puffing pig, and snuffer. ...PORPOISE. ...
/p/porpoise.htm - 11k

Badger (9 Occurrences)
... the King James Version "badgers' skins," the Revised Version (British and American)
"sealskin," the Revised Version, margin "porpoise-skin," Septuagint dermata ...
/b/badger.htm - 14k

Port (3 Occurrences)

/p/port.htm - 10k

Sealskin (8 Occurrences)
... skin: The rendering of the Revised Version (British and American) (Exodus 25:5 Ezekiel
16:10) for `or tachash, the Revised Version margin "porpoise-skin," the ...
/s/sealskin.htm - 9k

Zoology
... Red Deer (sv DEER) (3) Camelidae, Camel PROBOSCIDEA: Elephant HYRACOIDEA: Coney
SIRENIA: Dugong (sv BADGER) CETACNA: Whale, Dolphin, Porpoise RODENTIA: Mouse ...
/z/zoology.htm - 18k

Porphyry (1 Occurrence)

/p/porphyry.htm - 7k

Skin (115 Occurrences)
... The Revised Version, rejecting the translation "badgers' skins," substitutes
"sealskins" and adds "porpoise skins" in the margin. ...
/s/skin.htm - 44k

Sandals (30 Occurrences)
... Sandals were also made of seal-skin (Ezek. 16:10; lit. tahash, "leather;" AV, "badger's
skin;" RV, "sealskin, " or marg., "porpoise-skin"). (see SHOE.). ...
/s/sandals.htm - 16k

Tabernacle (333 Occurrences)
... name, mishkan (Exodus 26:1, 6); a second, the tent" covering of goats' hair; and
a third, a protective covering of rams' and seal- (or porpoise-) skins, cast ...
/t/tabernacle.htm - 101k

Porpoise: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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