The Hebrew word çolʻâm, represented by H5556, refers to a bald locust. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making it a highly specific term within the biblical text. The word's origin suggests a connection to destructiveness or consuming, as implied by its base definition, which is fitting for a type of locust.
The sole appearance of H5556 is in Leviticus 11:22. In this passage, çolʻâm is identified as one of the flying insects that the Israelites were permitted to eat. It is listed as the bald locust "after his kind," situating it within a specific category of clean foods as part of the Mosaic Law.
Several related words appear in the same context, helping to define the category of edible insects:
- H697 ʼarbeh (locust): This term, defined as a locust from its rapid increase, is listed first among the edible insects in Leviticus 11:22 and appears frequently in contexts of divine judgment and plagues Joel 1:4.
- H2728 chârᵉgôl (beetle): Defined as a leaping insect, this word is also listed as a clean food in the same verse, appearing as "the beetle after his kind" alongside the bald locust Leviticus 11:22.
- H2284 châgâb (locust): Another term for a locust, this word is mentioned at the end of the list of clean insects in Leviticus 11:22. It is also used metaphorically to describe a sense of smallness or insignificance Numbers 13:33.
The significance of H5556 is tied directly to the application of God's law in the daily life of Israel.
- Divine Law and Distinction: The inclusion of H5556 in the Levitical code underscores the theme of holiness through separation. God makes clear distinctions between what is clean and unclean, guiding Israel's daily life.
- Specificity in Provision: By naming the bald locust and other specific insects as permissible food, the law demonstrates God's detailed provision for His people, even within the category of insects Leviticus 11:22.
- Categorization in Creation: The phrase "after his kind" attached to çolʻâm reflects the broader biblical theme of an ordered creation, where different species are identified and categorized according to divine design.
In summary, H5556 is a precise term for the bald locust. Its single appearance in scripture firmly places it within the context of Israel's dietary laws. While not a major theological term, çolʻâm illustrates the specificity of God's commands and His provision for His people, highlighting how even the smallest of creatures were part of His ordered design for their holiness and daily life.
TRV