or יַנְשׁוֹף; apparently from נָשַׁף; (compare נֶשֶׁף); an unclean (acquatic) bird; probably the heron (perhaps from its blowing cry, or because the nightheron is meant )); (great) owl.s
Transliteration:yanshûwph
Pronunciation:yan-shoof'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3244}}` (yanshûwph), also appearing as יַנְשׁוֹף, denotes a specific type of bird listed as unclean within the Mosaic law. Its precise zoological identification has been a subject of scholarly discussion. The base definition provided suggests an etymological connection to `{{H5398}}` (nāshaph), meaning "to blow" or "to blow away," and `{{H5399}}` (nesheph), signifying "twilight" or "dusk." This etymology offers two primary interpretive paths for the bird's identity:
1. **Heron (especially Night Heron):** This identification might stem from a characteristic "blowing cry" or its association with aquatic environments, which can be perceived as liminal.
2. **Owl (Great Owl):** This identification is strongly supported by the connection to "twilight" or "dusk," as owls are predominantly nocturnal or crepuscular birds. Their distinctive hooting or "blowing" sounds could also align with the root.
Thus, the semantic range of `{{H3244}}` is confined to a particular avian species, characterized by its inclusion in lists of forbidden foods, with a strong likelihood of being either a heron or an owl, both of which possess characteristics that might have contributed to their "unclean" designation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3244}}` occurs exclusively in the Pentateuch, specifically within the dietary laws concerning clean and unclean animals:
* [[Leviticus 11:17]]: "and the little owl, and the cormorant, and the great owl" (KJV). Here, `{{H3244}}` is listed among other birds deemed an abomination for consumption, including `{{H3563}}` (kos, often "little owl") and `{{H7994}}` (shalakh, "cormorant").
* [[Deuteronomy 14:16]]: "The little owl, and the great owl, and the white owl" (KJV). This passage largely mirrors the list in Leviticus, reinforcing the consistent classification of `{{H3244}}` as an unclean bird.
In both contexts, `{{H3244}}` is embedded within a comprehensive catalogue of forbidden creatures. The purpose of these lists was not primarily biological classification but theological distinction, setting apart the people of Israel as holy unto the Lord. The specific characteristics of the `{{H3244}}`—whether its nocturnal habits (if an owl) or its association with marshy, less "pure" environments (if a heron)—likely contributed to its categorization as unclean. Its placement alongside other birds of prey or scavengers, or those associated with desolate places, further solidifies its status as a creature outside the boundaries of permissible food for the covenant people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of `{{H3244}}` is enriched by examining its connections to other lexical items and broader biblical concepts:
* **Etymological Roots:**
* `{{H5398}}` (nāshaph): "to blow, to blow away." This root points to a characteristic sound or movement of the bird.
* `{{H5399}}` (nesheph): "twilight, dusk." This strongly suggests a crepuscular or nocturnal creature, supporting the owl identification.
* **Other Unclean Birds:** `{{H3244}}` is consistently listed alongside other birds of similar classification, such as:
* `{{H5488}}` (qa'ath): "pelican," often associated with desolation ([[Psalm 102:6]]).
* `{{H3563}}` (kos): "little owl," another nocturnal bird.
* `{{H7994}}` (shalakh): "cormorant," an aquatic bird.
* `{{H6202}}` (atalleph): "bat," also a nocturnal flying creature listed as unclean.
* **Purity Laws (Kashrut):** The concept of `{{H3244}}` is inseparable from the broader system of dietary laws (Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14). These laws established clear distinctions between clean and unclean, serving as tangible markers of Israel's unique identity and calling to holiness (`{{H6944}}`, qodesh) and separation (`{{H914}}`, badal) from the nations.
* **Symbolism of Desolation/Darkness:** Many of the unclean birds, particularly those identified as owls, are frequently used in prophetic literature to symbolize desolation, ruin, or the presence of evil ([[Isaiah 34:11]], [[Zephaniah 2:14]]). While not explicitly stated for `{{H3244}}`, its potential identification as an owl aligns it with this thematic cluster, reinforcing its "unclean" status as something outside the realm of blessing and order.
### Theological Significance
The designation of `{{H3244}}` as an unclean bird carries profound theological implications within the Mosaic covenant.
* **Holiness and Distinction:** The primary theological purpose of the dietary laws was to cultivate holiness among the Israelites. By distinguishing between clean and unclean, God taught His people to discern and uphold boundaries that reflected His own holy character. The prohibition against `{{H3244}}` was not merely about hygiene but about cultivating a mindset of separation unto God, reminding Israel of their unique status as a chosen people.
* **Order and Creation:** The distinctions in the purity laws often reflect a divine ordering of creation. Animals that blurred categories (e.g., those living in multiple domains, or with unusual characteristics) were sometimes deemed unclean. If `{{H3244}}` is an owl, its nocturnal nature might challenge the normal diurnal rhythm of life; if a heron, its association with marshlands might have been seen as less "ordered" than dry land.
* **God's Sovereignty:** The very act of declaring certain animals permissible and others forbidden underscores God's absolute sovereignty over creation and His right to establish the terms of His covenant relationship with humanity. This demonstrated His authority to define what is pure and impure, acceptable and unacceptable, for His people.
* **Anticipation of Christ:** While the specific laws concerning `{{H3244}}` are part of the Old Covenant, they point forward to a deeper spiritual reality. In the New Testament, these dietary distinctions are superseded by Christ's redemptive work, which cleanses all things and breaks down barriers ([[Mark 7:19]], [[Acts 10:15]]). The emphasis shifts from external observances to internal purity of heart, yet the principle of living a life set apart for God remains.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3244}}` (yanshûwph) refers to an unclean bird, consistently listed in the dietary laws of [[Leviticus 11:17]] and [[Deuteronomy 14:16]]. Its precise identification remains debated, with scholarly proposals leaning towards either a type of heron (perhaps a night heron) or an owl (great owl), both supported by the word's etymological connections to "blowing" (`{{H5398}}`) and "twilight" (`{{H5399}}`). Regardless of its exact zoological classification, the theological significance of `{{H3244}}` lies in its inclusion within the category of forbidden animals. This designation served as a tangible expression of God's call for Israel to live a life of holiness and distinction, reflecting His own sacred character. The prohibition concerning `{{H3244}}`, alongside other specified creatures, reinforced the boundaries of the covenant and reminded the Israelites of their unique identity as a people set apart for the Lord.
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