Topical Encyclopedia The sparrow is a small bird mentioned in the Bible, often symbolizing insignificance and humility, yet also illustrating God's providential care. In the context of clean birds, sparrows are considered clean according to the dietary laws outlined in the Old Testament, although they are not explicitly listed among the clean birds in Leviticus 11 or Deuteronomy 14. Their inclusion in the category of clean birds is inferred from their general acceptance and presence in biblical narratives.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 84:3 : "Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she places her young near Your altars, O LORD of Hosts, my King and my God." This verse highlights the sparrow's presence in the temple courts, suggesting its acceptance and purity in the sacred space. 2. Matthew 10:29-31 : "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Here, Jesus uses the sparrow to teach about God's meticulous care for His creation, emphasizing that even creatures considered of little value are under His watchful eye. 3. Luke 12:6-7 : "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." This passage reiterates the theme of divine providence and the inherent value of all creatures, including sparrows. Symbolism and Significance: In biblical literature, sparrows are often used to convey themes of humility and divine care. Despite their small size and perceived insignificance, sparrows are portrayed as recipients of God's attention and care, serving as a metaphor for God's concern for humanity. The sparrow's ability to find a home near the altars of the Lord (Psalm 84:3) symbolizes the accessibility of God's presence to all creatures, regardless of their status. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, sparrows were common and inexpensive, often used as a measure of small value in trade. Their prevalence in daily life made them a relatable example for biblical teachings. The sparrow's mention in the context of temple worship and divine care underscores its role as a symbol of God's inclusive love and provision. Theological Implications: The sparrow's depiction in Scripture serves as a reminder of God's omniscience and benevolence. It challenges believers to trust in God's care and to recognize the value He places on all creation. The sparrow's presence in biblical narratives encourages a perspective of humility and gratitude, acknowledging that God's care extends to the smallest and seemingly least significant aspects of life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 14:4Then shall the priest command to take for him that is to be cleansed two birds alive and clean, and cedar wood, and scarlet, and hyssop: Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 10:29-31 Library ! is that Foul Smell... The Snare of the Fowler Off Duty The Glory of the Trinity On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xxii. 2, Etc. , About the ... La Brea Striking Similes The First Stages. Ch. 9:51 to 13:21 The Gods of Egypt On the Education of Children Resources Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is theistic evolution? | GotQuestions.org How did Noah fit all the animals on the Ark? | 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 |
    |