### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dayâh**, represented by `{{H1772}}`, identifies a **falcon** or **vulture**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a word suggesting rapid flight, emphasizing its identity as a swift bird of prey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{H1772}}` is used to specify a particular type of bird within legal and prophetic writings. In the laws of Moses, the **vulture** is explicitly named among the birds considered unclean and forbidden for consumption [[Deuteronomy 14:13]]. In the book of Isaiah, a prophecy of judgment includes the detail that **vultures** will be gathered in a desolate land, with each one accompanied by its mate, signifying a scene of complete ruin [[Isaiah 34:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the `dayâh`:
* `{{H344}}` **ʼayâh** (the screamer, i.e. a hawk; kite, vulture): This term for a bird of prey is listed alongside the `dayâh` in the list of unclean animals, reinforcing the legal classification of these creatures [[Deuteronomy 14:13]].
* `{{H4327}}` **mîyn** (a sort, i.e. species; kind): This word is used to categorize the vulture in the phrase "the vulture after his kind," highlighting its use in the systematic classification of creatures under biblical law [[Deuteronomy 14:13]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (a primitive root; to grasp, i.e. collect; assemble, gather): This verb describes the action of the vultures in the prophecy of Isaiah, where they are "gathered" together as a sign of divine judgment taking effect [[Isaiah 34:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1772}}` is connected to its symbolic role in law and prophecy.
* **Ritual Uncleanness:** By being included in the list of forbidden animals, the `dayâh` serves as a marker of what is ritually impure, helping to establish the distinct dietary and purity laws for Israel [[Deuteronomy 14:13]].
* **Sign of Divine Judgment:** The presence of vultures gathering in a land is a powerful prophetic image of desolation and death. Their arrival signifies the aftermath of God's judgment upon a place [[Isaiah 34:15]].
* **Prophetic Certainty:** The prophecy that vultures will be gathered, with none lacking a mate, underscores the certainty and completeness of God's decreed word. It shows that nature itself will be ordered to fulfill the divine command [[Isaiah 34:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1772}}` is more than a simple zoological term. It functions as a specific and potent symbol within the Old Testament. As a **vulture** or **falcon**, it serves first as a legal example of an unclean animal and second as a prophetic sign of desolation and fulfilled judgment. Its two concise appearances effectively illustrate how a creature can represent concepts of both religious law and divine retribution.
TRV