Topical Bible: The Owl: Careful of Its Young

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The owl, a bird often mentioned in the Bible, is a creature that has captured the imagination of many due to its nocturnal habits and distinctive appearance. In biblical literature, the owl is frequently associated with desolation and solitude, often inhabiting ruins and deserted places. However, beyond these symbolic associations, the owl is also noted for its care and attentiveness to its young, a trait that can be observed in its natural behavior.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The owl is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, often in contexts that emphasize its presence in desolate or abandoned areas. For instance, in Isaiah 34:11, the prophet describes the desolation of Edom, stating, "The desert owl and screech owl will possess it; the great owl and the raven will dwell in it." . Similarly, in Psalm 102:6, the psalmist laments, "I am like a desert owl, like an owl among the ruins." . These references highlight the owl's association with loneliness and desolation, serving as a metaphor for judgment and abandonment.

Natural Behavior and Care for Young

Despite its symbolic representation in Scripture, the owl is a creature known for its diligent care of its offspring. In the natural world, owls exhibit a strong parental instinct, with both parents often involved in the nurturing and protection of their young. Owls typically nest in secluded areas, providing a safe environment for their eggs and hatchlings. The female owl is primarily responsible for incubating the eggs, while the male provides food and protection.

Once the owlets hatch, both parents continue to play active roles in their upbringing. They feed the young with a diet rich in small mammals and insects, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development. The parents are vigilant in guarding the nest, using their keen senses to detect and ward off potential threats.

Lessons from the Owl's Care

The owl's attentive care for its young can serve as a reflection of the biblical principles of parental responsibility and protection. Just as the owl diligently watches over its offspring, Scripture calls parents to nurture and guide their children in the ways of the Lord. Proverbs 22:6 instructs, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." . This verse underscores the importance of providing spiritual and moral guidance, much like the owl's provision of physical sustenance and safety for its young.

In the broader context of creation, the owl's behavior exemplifies the intricate design and order established by God. Each creature, including the owl, fulfills a specific role within the ecosystem, demonstrating the Creator's wisdom and care for all living beings. The owl's dedication to its young serves as a reminder of God's providential care and the responsibility entrusted to parents to raise their children in accordance with His will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 34:15
There shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
... Young men, endeavour, as much as in you lies, to keep ... us not into temptation," unless
you are yourselves careful not to ... you show a desire to keep out of its way ...
/.../chapter xix tit 2 6 thoughts.htm

Whether There was any Reasonable Cause for the Ceremonial ...
... The screech-owl, which seeks its food by night but hides ... of flesh savors of delicate
and over-careful living. ... the soil gives birth to the herb of its own accord ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether there was any reasonable.htm

The Touchstone of Godly Sincerity
... has lost its novelty; I have worn out its delights; I ... Should we not be ever careful
to secure his gifts, to ... but he likes it no better than an owl loves daylight ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/the touchstone of godly sincerity.htm

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
... by Dr. Gill, and others, deserves careful consideration; while we keep in mind,
that leaven which must spread, however invisible in its operation, until the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... things as good, as rich, as profitable, For young, for old ... doth but show how wisdom's
covered With its own mantles ... than they love a cuckoo, or an owl; Leave such ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... beast, and to a wretched infant in its blood (Job ... in it, except he be abroad; this
young beginners will ... And therefore should masters be careful, else they may ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm