Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the owl is classified among the unclean birds, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. The owl is mentioned in several passages, primarily in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, where dietary laws are detailed for the Israelites. These laws were given to distinguish between clean and unclean animals, guiding the Israelites in their dietary practices and symbolizing spiritual purity and separation from pagan practices.Biblical References: 1. Leviticus 11:13-19 : The owl is listed among the birds that are considered detestable and not to be eaten. The passage states, "These you shall regard as detestable among the birds; they must not be eaten because they are detestable: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the kite, any kind of falcon, every kind of raven, the ostrich, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat." 2. Deuteronomy 14:12-18 : This passage reiterates the list of unclean birds, including the owl, emphasizing the importance of adhering to these dietary restrictions. It reads, "But these you may not eat: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the red kite, the black kite, any kind of falcon, any kind of raven, the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, the little owl, the great owl, the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, the cormorant, the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat." Symbolism and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, owls were often associated with desolation and ruin. Their nocturnal nature and haunting calls contributed to their perception as ominous creatures. This symbolism is reflected in several prophetic writings where owls are depicted inhabiting desolate places, serving as a metaphor for judgment and desolation. 1. Isaiah 34:11 : In a prophecy against Edom, the owl is mentioned as a creature that will inhabit the desolate land, symbolizing complete devastation. "The desert owl and screech owl will possess it; the great owl and the raven will dwell in it. The LORD will stretch out over Edom the measuring line of chaos and the plumb line of destruction." 2. Jeremiah 50:39 : Similarly, in the prophecy against Babylon, the owl is used to illustrate the desolation that will come upon the land. "So the desert creatures and hyenas will live there, and the ostriches will dwell there. It will never again be inhabited or lived in from generation to generation." Theological Implications: The classification of the owl as unclean underscores the broader biblical theme of holiness and separation. The dietary laws served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of their unique identity as God's chosen people, called to live according to His statutes. The owl, with its associations of desolation and darkness, contrasts with the biblical call to live in the light and purity of God's presence. In summary, the owl's designation as an unclean bird in the Bible reflects both practical and symbolic considerations, serving as a reminder of the call to holiness and the consequences of turning away from God's ways. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 11:16And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckow, and the hawk after his kind, Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 30:29 Library Whether There was any Reasonable Cause for the Ceremonial ... The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals. On the Animals Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. 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