The Hebrew word dâʼâh, represented by H1676, refers to the kite or vulture, a name derived from its rapid flight. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its meaning is therefore tied exclusively to its single appearance within the context of biblical law.
The sole instance of H1676 is found in the Levitical dietary laws, which outline the animals considered unclean and forbidden for consumption. In the list of unclean birds, the verse states, "And the vulture H1676, and the kite H344 after his kind H4327;" Leviticus 11:14. Here, it functions simply as a label for a specific type of bird of prey that the Israelites were commanded to avoid.
Several related words help clarify its context within the passage:
- H344 ʼayâh (perhaps from אִי; the screamer, i.e. a hawk; kite, vulture.): This word appears directly alongside H1676 in the list of unclean fowl, identifying another type of kite or vulture Leviticus 11:14. It is also used elsewhere to describe a bird with exceptionally keen eyesight Job 28:7.
- H4327 mîyn (a sort, i.e. species; kind.): This term is crucial for classification in the Bible. It modifies both H1676 and H344 in Leviticus, indicating that the prohibition applies to the entire category or "kind" of these birds Leviticus 11:14. The same word is used in the creation narrative to describe God's ordering of animals and plants "after his kind" Genesis 1:24.
The significance of H1676 is not found in broad theological themes but in its specific legal application:
- Ceremonial Uncleanness: The word's only function is to identify a creature as unclean. Its inclusion in the list in Leviticus 11 is part of a larger system of laws designed to separate the nation of Israel and mark them as holy.
- Order and Classification: The use of H1676 within a detailed list demonstrates a divinely ordered natural world with clear distinctions. Its grouping with the kite H344 and the qualifier "after his kind" H4327 reinforces the theme of created order first seen in Genesis Genesis 1:21.
In summary, H1676 is a precise and narrowly-used term for a vulture or kite. Its importance comes entirely from its single mention in Leviticus 11:14, where it serves the practical purpose of identifying an unclean animal within the Israelite dietary code. The word illustrates how specific parts of the Hebrew vocabulary are dedicated to the legal and ceremonial aspects of the covenant.
TRV