### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dámalis**, represented by `{{G1151}}`, refers to a **heifer**. According to its base definition, the term suggests a tame animal. This word is highly specific in its biblical usage, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1151}}` is in [[Hebrews 9:13]], where it is part of a theological argument about ceremonial cleansing. The verse presents a conditional statement: **if** the **blood** of **bulls** and **goats**, along with the **ashes** of a **heifer**, when sprinkled on those who are unclean, can sanctify for the purification of the **flesh**, then a greater reality is implied. The **heifer** is thus presented as an element within a ritual designed for external purification.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its single context clarify its ceremonial function:
* `{{G5022}}` **taûros** (bull, ox): This word appears alongside **heifer** in the list of sacrificial elements. The **blood** of **bulls** is mentioned together with the ashes of the **heifer** as part of the same purification ritual [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* `{{G4700}}` **spodós** (ashes): This term is directly linked to **dámalis** in the phrase "the **ashes** of an **heifer**." The ashes are the specific part of the **heifer** used in the ceremonial act [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* `{{G2514}}` **katharótēs** (purification): This word defines the outcome of the ritual involving the **heifer's** ashes. The entire ceremony serves the purpose of achieving the **purifying** of the flesh [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1151}}` is tied completely to its role in the argument of [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* **Ceremonial Cleansing:** The primary function of the **heifer** in its scriptural context is for ritual purification. Its **ashes**, when sprinkled, are shown to **sanctify** those considered ceremonially unclean [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* **Purification of the Flesh:** The effect of this ritual is explicitly limited to the physical realm. The verse states that the sprinkling leads to "the **purifying** of the **flesh**" [[Hebrews 9:13]], highlighting an external cleansing.
* **Figurative Argument:** The use of the **heifer** is part of a larger argument introduced by the word "for" `{{G1063}}` and "if" `{{G1487}}`. The ritual involving the blood of animals and the ashes of the **heifer** serves as a known example of physical sanctification.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1151}}` **dámalis** is a precise term for a **heifer** used in a very specific biblical illustration. Its single mention in scripture places it within the framework of ceremonial law, where its **ashes** were used to achieve the external **purifying** of the **flesh** [[Hebrews 9:13]]. The word's significance is tied entirely to its role in this one passage, where it serves as a foundational element in an argument about sanctification.
TRV