### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dûwkîyphath**, represented by `{{H1744}}`, refers to the **lapwing**, though its derivation is uncertain and it may also mean hoopoe or grouse. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is highly specific, appearing only within lists of animals deemed unclean.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1744}}` is used exclusively to identify one of the flying creatures that the Israelites were forbidden to eat under the Mosaic Law. The word's appearance is identical in both instances where it is found. It is listed among other unclean birds in the dietary laws presented in Leviticus [[Leviticus 11:19]] and reiterated in Deuteronomy [[Deuteronomy 14:18]], solidifying its status as ritually impure.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other words for unclean creatures are listed directly alongside the **lapwing**:
* `{{H2624}}` **chăçîydâh** (the kind (maternal) bird, i.e. a stork; [idiom] feather, stork): The stork is named immediately before the lapwing in both lists of forbidden animals ([[Leviticus 11:19]], [[Deuteronomy 14:18]]).
* `{{H601}}` **ʼănâphâh** (an unclean bird, perhaps the parrot (from its irascibility); heron): The heron is another bird specified as unclean in the same lists that include the lapwing ([[Leviticus 11:19]], [[Deuteronomy 14:18]]).
* `{{H5847}}` **ʻăṭallêph** (of uncertain derivation; a bat; bat): The bat concludes the lists where the lapwing is mentioned ([[Leviticus 11:19]], [[Deuteronomy 14:18]]), and is also associated with discarded idols elsewhere in scripture [[Isaiah 2:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1744}}` is tied directly to the laws of purity and separation for the nation of Israel.
* **Defining Uncleanliness:** The primary role of the **lapwing** in scripture is to serve as a clear example of what is considered unclean and therefore forbidden for consumption.
* **Instruction in Holiness:** Its inclusion in the detailed lists of Leviticus and Deuteronomy demonstrates a divine command for discernment and obedience in everyday life, setting God's people apart.
* **A Symbol of Prohibition:** The **lapwing** is not given any other narrative or symbolic role; its significance is entirely contained within its classification as part of a group of forbidden animals, alongside the stork, heron, and bat ([[Leviticus 11:19]], [[Deuteronomy 14:18]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1744}}` is a term with a very narrow and specific application in the Old Testament. As the **lapwing**, its sole function is to populate the list of unclean flying things within the dietary laws. It serves as a straightforward marker of prohibition, reinforcing the broader biblical themes of holiness, obedience, and the distinction between the clean and the unclean for the people of Israel.
TRV