Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical dietary laws, the classification of animals as "clean" or "unclean" is significant, particularly in the Old Testament. The distinction between clean and unclean birds is outlined in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14. While these passages do not explicitly mention the cock (rooster) and hen, they provide a framework for understanding which birds were considered permissible for consumption by the Israelites.Biblical Context and Classification The Bible does not specifically list the cock and hen among the clean or unclean birds. However, the general principles for determining clean birds can be applied. Leviticus 11:13-19 and Deuteronomy 14:11-20 provide lists of unclean birds, primarily predatory and scavenger species, which are to be avoided. By contrast, clean birds are typically those that do not fall into these categories and are often domesticated or non-predatory. The cock and hen, as domesticated birds, align with the characteristics of clean birds. They are not birds of prey, nor do they scavenge, which fits the criteria for clean birds as understood from the biblical text. Domesticated chickens, including both the cock and hen, have been a staple in human diets for centuries and are generally considered clean by traditional Jewish and Christian interpretations. Symbolism and Cultural Significance While the Bible does not explicitly mention the cock and hen in the context of dietary laws, these birds do appear in other biblical narratives and have symbolic significance. The rooster, for instance, is famously associated with Peter's denial of Jesus. In Matthew 26:34, Jesus predicts, "Truly I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." This event underscores themes of human frailty and repentance. In a broader cultural and historical context, the cock and hen have been symbols of vigilance and providence. The rooster's crowing at dawn has been seen as a herald of the new day, symbolizing watchfulness and the passage of time. This symbolism is reflected in various Christian traditions, where the rooster is sometimes used as a symbol of resurrection and vigilance. Practical Considerations In the agrarian societies of biblical times, chickens were valued for their eggs and meat, making them an important resource for sustenance. The domestication of chickens likely contributed to their perception as clean animals, suitable for consumption and sacrifice. While the Bible does not provide explicit instructions regarding the cock and hen, their characteristics and roles in society align with the broader principles of clean animals. In summary, while the Bible does not specifically categorize the cock and hen as clean or unclean, their characteristics and historical roles suggest they would be considered clean according to the principles outlined in the Old Testament. Their presence in biblical narratives and symbolism further enriches their significance within the biblical tradition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 23:37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you that kill the prophets, and stone them which are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children together, even as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, and you would not! Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 26:34,74 Library The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals. The Pilgrim's Progress Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Resources What does it mean that Jesus had nowhere to lay His head? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Mustard Seed? | GotQuestions.org What does God want me to do? | GotQuestions.org Birds: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Birds are Hostile to Strange Kinds Birds of Cruel and Rapacious Kings Birds of People of Different Countries Birds of the Devil and his Spirits Birds: (Snaring) Designs of the Wicked Birds: Called: Birds of the Air Birds: Called: Fowls of Heaven Birds: Called: Fowls of the Air Birds: Clean: Offered in Sacrifice Birds: Confinement of, in Cages Alluded To Birds: Created for the Glory of God Birds: Creation of, on the Fifth Creative Day Birds: Differ in Flesh from Beasts and Fishes Birds: Early Distinguished Into Clean and Clean Birds: Have Each Their Peculiar Note or Song Birds: Herb of the Field Given As Food To Birds: Inhabit: Deserted Cities Birds: Instinct of, Inferior to Man's Reason Birds: Lessons of Wisdom to be Learned From Birds: Make Their Nests in Clefts of Rocks Birds: Make Their Nests in Deserted Cities Birds: Make Their Nests in Trees Birds: Make Their Nests: On the Ground Birds: Make Their Nests: Under the Roofs of Houses Birds: Make, and Dwell in Nests Birds: Many Kinds of, Carnivorous Birds: Many Kinds of, Graniverous Birds: Many Kinds of, Migratory Birds: Moses' Law Protected the Mother from Being Taken With the Young Birds: Names Given To, by Adam Birds: No Likeness of, to be Made for Worship Birds: Not to be Eaten With Their Young Birds: Often Remove from Places Suffering Calamities Birds: Often Suffered for Man's Sin Birds: Often Worshipped by Idolaters Birds: Power Over Given to Man Birds: Rapid Flight of, Alluded To Birds: Solomon Wrote the History of Birds: Songs of, at the Break of Day Birds: Taken in Snares or Nets Birds: The Blood of, not to be Eaten Birds: Unclean: Not to be Eaten Birds: What Species Were Unclean Related Terms |
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