### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉʻîyr**, represented by `{{H1165}}`, refers to **beasts** or **cattle**. Derived from a root word implying "eating," it appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**. This term is used for domestic animals that are essential for labor, sustenance, and travel, highlighting their integral role in the lives of the biblical characters.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1165}}` is used to illustrate the relationship between humanity, their livestock, and God. In Genesis, Pharaoh commands Joseph’s brothers to "lade your **beasts**" for their journey, showing their function in transport and logistics [[Genesis 45:17]]. In Numbers, the Israelites' survival in the wilderness is tied to their animals, as they cry out that they and their **cattle** will die [[Numbers 20:4]]. God's provision of water from the rock is explicitly for both the congregation and their **beasts** ([[Numbers 20:8]], [[Numbers 20:11]]). The term is also used in a legal context, establishing restitution for when one's **beast** feeds in another's field [[Exodus 22:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the role of livestock and divine action:
* `{{H1259}}` **bârâd** (hail): This word is used for **hail** or **hailstones**, often depicted as an instrument of divine judgment. It appears alongside **bᵉʻîyr** in [[Psalms 78:48]], where God gives up the people's **cattle** to the **hail**. This same force is seen as a plague upon Egypt [[Exodus 9:23]].
* `{{H4735}}` **miqneh** (cattle, flock, herd, possession): This term refers to livestock as a form of property, wealth, and substance. It is used to describe Abram's great riches in **cattle** [[Genesis 13:2]] and Job's substance, which included thousands of sheep and camels [[Job 1:3]]. In [[Psalms 78:48]], it is used for "flocks" in parallel with **bᵉʻîyr** ("cattle").
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1165}}` carries specific theological and conceptual weight, particularly regarding God's relationship with His creation.
* **Divine Provision:** The repeated mention of providing water for the **beasts** in the wilderness demonstrates that God's care extends beyond humanity to the creatures that depend on them. The survival of the livestock was critical to the survival of the nation [[Numbers 20:8]].
* **Divine Judgment:** Livestock are not spared from the consequences of human actions. As seen in [[Psalms 78:48]], God's judgment can directly impact the animals, where the **cattle** were given over to the **hail**.
* **Human Responsibility:** The law in [[Exodus 22:5]] establishes a principle of accountability. A person is responsible for the actions of their **beast**, underscoring that these animals are under human stewardship and are a key part of their household and economic life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1165}}` is more than just a label for an animal. It defines a crucial element of ancient life, representing sustenance, labor, and wealth. The term consistently appears in contexts that link the fate of these **beasts** to the fate of the people, whether as recipients of God's miraculous provision, subjects of His judgment, or the focus of His laws of community responsibility.
TRV