### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉnappîyr**, represented by `{{H5579}}`, is the term for a **fin** or **fins**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is exclusively within the context of the Mosaic dietary laws, where it functions as a primary physical characteristic for identifying clean and unclean aquatic creatures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5579}}` is always used to establish a clear rule for what is permissible to eat from the water. The guideline is stated in both Leviticus and Deuteronomy: "whatsoever hath **fins** and scales" may be eaten ([[Leviticus 11:9]], [[Deuteronomy 14:9]]). Conversely, any creature in the **waters** `{{H4325}}`, whether in the **seas** `{{H3220}}` or **rivers** `{{H5158}}`, that does not have **fins** `{{H5579}}` and scales is forbidden. Such creatures are declared an **abomination** `{{H8263}}` [[Leviticus 11:12]] and **unclean** `{{H2931}}` [[Deuteronomy 14:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential to understanding the context in which **fins** are mentioned:
* `{{H7193}}` **qasqeseth** (a scale): This term is always paired with **fins** as the second requirement for a clean aquatic animal. The law explicitly requires both **fins** and **scales** for a creature to be considered edible [[Deuteronomy 14:9]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): The presence or absence of **fins** is a determining factor in what the Israelites are permitted to **eat**. Creatures with both features "shall ye **eat**" [[Leviticus 11:9]], while those without them "ye may not **eat**" [[Deuteronomy 14:10]].
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This describes the status of aquatic life that lacks **fins** and scales. They are ritually **unclean** and therefore prohibited for consumption [[Deuteronomy 14:10]].
* `{{H8263}}` **sheqets** (abomination): Going beyond simply being unclean, creatures without **fins** are designated as an **abomination**, a detestable thing that must be avoided [[Leviticus 11:10]].
### Theological Significance
The legal significance of `{{H5579}}` highlights key principles within the law:
* **A Clear Boundary:** The rule concerning **fins** provides a simple, observable standard for the Israelites. It created a clear line between what was permitted and what was forbidden among the vast array of creatures that **move** `{{H8318}}` in the waters.
* **The Principle of Separation:** By establishing which aquatic life was clean or **unclean** `{{H2931}}`, the law of **fins** and scales taught a practical lesson in separation and holiness, reminding the people of their distinct covenant relationship with God.
* **Defining Order:** The requirement for both **fins** `{{H5579}}` and scales `{{H7193}}` appears to define the standard form of a fish. Aquatic animals lacking these traits, which included "any living **thing** `{{H5315}}` which is in the waters" [[Leviticus 11:10]], were outside this established order and thus considered an **abomination** `{{H8263}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5579}}` is not merely a biological descriptor but a legal and theological one. It serves as a critical marker in the dietary laws given to Israel, consistently used with **scales** `{{H7193}}` to distinguish the clean from the **unclean** `{{H2931}}`. The word illustrates how a simple physical trait was invested with spiritual significance, instructing God's people in the principles of obedience, distinction, and holiness.
TRV