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.
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.
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.
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).
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