### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **keseb**, represented by `{{H3775}}`, means **a young sheep** or **lamb**. It is apparently a transposition for a related word and appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses**. This term is used specifically to identify young sheep in contexts of both animal husbandry and sacrificial worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3775}}` is prominent in two key areas. First, it is foundational to the Levitical laws regarding sacrifices. A **lamb** could be brought as a burnt sacrifice `{{H5930}}` [[Leviticus 1:10]] or as an offering `{{H7133}}` before the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Leviticus 3:7]]. The fat `{{H2459}}` of the **lamb** from a peace offering `{{H8002}}` was burned on the altar `{{H4196}}` to make atonement `{{H3722}}` for sin [[Leviticus 4:35]]. Second, it appears in the Genesis account of Jacob `{{H3290}}` and Laban `{{H3837}}`, where Jacob separates the **lambs** `{{H3775}}` to build his own flock `{{H5739}}` as part of his wages `{{H7939}}` [[Genesis 30:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the role of `{{H3775}}` as a flock animal:
* `{{H7716}}` **seh** (a member of a flock, i.e. a sheep or goat): This is a more general term for a sheep, used alongside **keseb** to specify the animal to be eaten [[Deuteronomy 14:4]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats)): This word describes the larger group from which an individual **keseb** comes, as when Jacob passed through Laban's flock [[Genesis 30:32]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (beef cattle or an animal of the ox family): This animal is frequently listed with **keseb** as an acceptable offering, defining the primary categories of livestock for sacrifice [[Leviticus 22:19]].
* `{{H5795}}` **ʻêz** (a she-goat): Often mentioned in a triad with oxen and sheep, this term helps to classify the **keseb** as one of the main animals in Israel's agricultural and religious life [[Leviticus 1:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3775}}` is primarily centered on its role in worship and divine blessing.
* **Sacrifice and Atonement:** The **lamb** is explicitly designated as an animal whose life could be offered for peace offerings `{{H8002}}`. The ritual burning `{{H6999}}` of its fat `{{H2459}}` by a priest `{{H3548}}` was a means to make an atonement `{{H3722}}` for a person's sin `{{H2398}}`, resulting in forgiveness `{{H5545}}` [[Leviticus 4:35]].
* **Holiness and Consecration:** The firstling `{{H1060}}` of a **sheep** `{{H3775}}` is declared holy `{{H6944}}` and must not be redeemed `{{H6299}}`. Its blood `{{H1818}}` was to be sprinkled `{{H2236}}` on the altar `{{H4196}}` and its fat burned as a sweet `{{H5207}}` savour `{{H7381}}` to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 18:17]].
* **Wealth and Provision:** In the narrative of Jacob, the **lambs** `{{H3775}}` are a measure of his hire `{{H7939}}`. The increase of his flocks, including the brown `{{H2345}}` among the sheep, demonstrates his righteousness `{{H6666}}` and serves as a tangible sign of his prosperity ([[Genesis 30:33]], [[Genesis 30:40]]).
### Summary
In summary, **keseb** `{{H3775}}` provides a specific identity for a young sheep, distinguishing it within the larger flock. While it functions as a key element of economic life and wealth, as seen in the story of Jacob, its most significant role is in the sacrificial system. As an acceptable offering for atonement and a consecrated firstling, the **lamb** stands as a central animal in the worship of ancient Israel, connecting the daily life of shepherds with the holy requirements of the altar.
TRV