### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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