The ostrich, a large flightless bird native to Africa, is mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of imprudence and neglect, particularly in the context of parental care. The biblical portrayal of the ostrich highlights its perceived lack of wisdom and understanding, contrasting it with other creatures that exhibit more nurturing behaviors.

In the Book of Job, the ostrich is described in a passage that underscores its seemingly careless nature. Job 39:13-18 states: "The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, but cannot match the pinions and feathers of the stork. For she leaves her eggs on the ground and lets them warm in the sand. She forgets that a foot may crush them, or a wild animal may trample them. She treats her young harshly, as if they were not her own, with no concern that her labor was in vain. For God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding. Yet when she proudly spreads her wings, she laughs at the horse and its rider."

This passage highlights several key characteristics attributed to the ostrich. Firstly, the ostrich is noted for its joyful flapping of wings, yet it lacks the ability to fly, unlike the stork, which is known for its graceful flight. This serves as a metaphor for the bird's imprudence, as it possesses the physical attributes of a bird but not the capability to use them fully.

Secondly, the ostrich's method of caring for its eggs is depicted as negligent. By leaving her eggs on the ground, exposed to potential threats, the ostrich is seen as lacking the foresight and protective instincts that are typically associated with maternal care. This behavior is used to illustrate a deficiency in wisdom and understanding, as the ostrich appears oblivious to the dangers that could befall her offspring.

The passage further emphasizes that this lack of wisdom is divinely ordained, as it states, "For God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding." This suggests that the ostrich's imprudence is part of the natural order established by God, serving as a reminder of the limitations placed upon certain creatures.

Despite these shortcomings, the ostrich is also noted for its speed and agility, as it "laughs at the horse and its rider." This indicates that while the ostrich may lack certain qualities, it possesses other attributes that are admirable, such as its ability to outrun many predators.

In the broader biblical context, the ostrich's imprudence serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of neglect and lack of foresight. It is a reminder of the importance of wisdom and understanding, particularly in the care and protection of one's offspring. The ostrich's portrayal in Scripture invites reflection on the value of prudence and the divine wisdom that guides creation.Job 39:15
And forgets that the foot may crush them, or that the wild beast may break them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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Ostrich: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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