Topical Bible: Beasts: Clean: Chamois

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Topical Encyclopedia

The chamois is mentioned in the context of clean animals in the Bible, specifically in the book of Deuteronomy. According to the Mosaic Law, certain animals were deemed clean and permissible for consumption by the Israelites. The chamois is listed among these clean animals, highlighting its significance in the dietary laws given to the people of Israel.

Biblical Reference:

In Deuteronomy 14:5, the chamois is included in the list of clean animals: "the deer, the gazelle, the roe deer, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the chamois." . This passage is part of a broader section where Moses reiterates the dietary laws to the Israelites, emphasizing the distinction between clean and unclean animals.

Description and Characteristics:

The chamois is a goat-antelope species native to the mountains of Europe and the Middle East. It is known for its agility and ability to navigate steep and rocky terrains. The chamois has a distinctive appearance, with a short, dark coat in winter and a lighter, reddish-brown coat in summer. It possesses sharp, backward-curving horns and a white face with dark stripes running from the eyes to the muzzle.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

In the context of ancient Israel, the classification of animals into clean and unclean was not merely a dietary guideline but also held spiritual significance. The clean animals, including the chamois, were considered suitable for consumption and, in some cases, for sacrificial purposes. This classification underscored the Israelites' call to holiness and separation from the practices of surrounding nations.

The inclusion of the chamois among clean animals reflects the broader principle of discernment and obedience to God's commandments. By adhering to these dietary laws, the Israelites demonstrated their commitment to living according to God's will and maintaining their covenant relationship with Him.

Modern Considerations:

While the specific identification of the chamois in the biblical text has been a subject of scholarly discussion, it is generally accepted that the term refers to a type of mountain-dwelling ungulate. The chamois serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting the distinctions laid out in Scripture, even as dietary laws have evolved in the context of the New Covenant.

In contemporary times, the chamois continues to be appreciated for its unique characteristics and its role in the natural ecosystem. Its mention in the Bible as a clean animal highlights the enduring relevance of biblical teachings on purity, obedience, and the sanctity of God's creation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 14:5
The hart, and the roebuck, and the fallow deer, and the wild goat, and the pygarg, and the wild ox, and the chamois.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Striking Similes
... Howling in the wilderness like beasts. ... Love as clean as starlight. ... The guides sniffed,
like chamois, the air [chamois = extremely agile goat antelope]. ...
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