### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chăzîyr**, represented by `{{H2386}}`, is the term for a **hog**, **boar**, or **swine**. Its definition comes from an unused root thought to mean "to enclose," perhaps indicating a penned animal. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses**, consistently representing an animal that is unclean and forbidden.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H2386}}` is central to the concept of dietary law and abomination. In both Leviticus and Deuteronomy, the **swine** is explicitly declared unclean because, while it has a divided hoof, it does not chew the cud ([[Leviticus 11:7]], [[Deuteronomy 14:8]]). The prophets use this imagery to condemn disobedient practices; Isaiah equates offering **swine's** blood with blessing an idol [[Isaiah 66:3]] and lists eating **swine's** flesh among the abominable acts for which people will be consumed ([[Isaiah 65:4]], [[Isaiah 66:17]]). Metaphorically, it represents something base, as in the proverb of a gold jewel in a **swine's** snout [[Proverbs 11:22]], and as a destructive force, where the **boar** from the wood wastes the vineyard [[Psalms 80:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the status and context of the swine:
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This is the specific state assigned to the swine in the Law. It is the definitive reason it is forbidden for consumption or touch ([[Leviticus 11:7]], [[Deuteronomy 14:8]]).
* `{{H1625}}` **gêrâh** (cud): This term is crucial for the legal definition of clean and unclean animals. The swine's failure to chew the **cud** is a primary reason for its classification as unclean [[Leviticus 11:7]].
* `{{H1320}}` **bâsâr** (flesh): The prohibition is often explicitly against eating the **flesh** of swine, linking the animal directly to forbidden food and idolatrous feasts ([[Isaiah 65:4]], [[Isaiah 66:17]]).
* `{{H8263}}` **sheqets** (abomination): This word describes things that are filthy or disgusting. It is used alongside swine's flesh to describe forbidden foods consumed in rebellious acts [[Isaiah 66:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2386}}` is significant, establishing it as a key symbol of defilement.
* **Ritual Uncleanness:** The swine serves as a prime example of what is ritually **unclean** `{{H2931}}` in the Mosaic Law. The command to not eat its **flesh** `{{H1320}}` or even touch its carcase `{{H5038}}` establishes a clear boundary between the clean and unclean for Israel [[Deuteronomy 14:8]].
* **Symbol of Abomination:** In the prophets, partaking of the swine is not merely a dietary violation but an act of deep spiritual rebellion. Eating **swine's** flesh is associated with those who remain among graves and lodge in monuments, and is listed with other abominations that provoke the LORD ([[Isaiah 65:4]], [[Isaiah 66:17]]).
* **Metaphor for the Profane:** Beyond ritual law, the swine is used in wisdom literature to illustrate the mismatch between the precious and the profane. A beautiful woman without discretion is likened to a jewel of **gold** `{{H2091}}` in a **swine's** snout, a place of filth [[Proverbs 11:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2386}}` is far more than an animal. It functions as a foundational symbol of the unclean and abominable in scripture. From the legal codes of Leviticus and Deuteronomy to the prophetic rebukes in Isaiah, the **swine** consistently represents what is forbidden, defiling, and associated with idolatrous practices. Its use as both a literal prohibition and a powerful metaphor makes it a key term for understanding biblical concepts of holiness and separation.
TRV