### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻeglâh**, represented by `{{H5697}}`, refers to a young female calf or **heifer**. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. While literally denoting a young cow, it is frequently used in a rich, symbolic capacity to represent nations, ritual purity, and human behavior.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5697}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It is specified for sacred rituals, such as the covenant God made with Abram, which required a **heifer** of three years old [[Genesis 15:9]]. In the Law, a special ceremony involving a **heifer** that has never been worked or pulled a yoke is prescribed to atone for an unsolved murder [[Deuteronomy 21:3]]. Figuratively, nations are often depicted as a **heifer**. Egypt is called a "very fair **heifer**" before its destruction [[Jeremiah 46:20]], and Moab's cry of destruction is likened to that of a "**heifer** of three years old" [[Isaiah 15:5]]. The term is also used more personally, as when Samson refers to his wife as his **heifer** in a riddle [[Judges 14:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of **ʻeglâh**:
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (beef cattle): This is a general term for the ox family. It is often used alongside `{{H5697}}` to specify the animal, such as when Samuel is instructed to take a **heifer** from the herd [[1 Samuel 16:2]] or when a man nourishes a young **cow** [[Isaiah 7:21]].
* `{{H5923}}` **ʻôl** (yoke): The state of being unyoked is a key qualifier for the ritual **heifer** in Deuteronomy. The law specifies taking a heifer "which hath not drawn in the **yoke**" [[Deuteronomy 21:3]], highlighting its purity and separation from common labor.
* `{{H1758}}` **dûwsh** (to tread out): This action is associated with the metaphorical heifer representing Ephraim. Ephraim "is as an heifer that is taught, and loveth **to tread out** the corn" [[Hosea 10:11]], indicating a preference for easy, rewarding work over more difficult tasks.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5697}}` is seen in its symbolic applications:
* **Ritual Atonement and Covenant:** The **heifer** is a key element in solemn ceremonies. Its use in Abram's covenant signifies the gravity of the promise [[Genesis 15:9]]. In Deuteronomy 21, the life of a pure, unworked **heifer** is given to cleanse the land from the guilt of an unsolved murder, demonstrating a principle of substitutionary atonement ([[Deuteronomy 21:4]], [[Deuteronomy 21:6]]).
* **Symbol of Nations and Peoples:** Scripture uses the heifer to personify nations. Ephraim is a trained **heifer** that prefers easy work but will be subjected to the discipline of the yoke [[Hosea 10:11]]. The enemies of Israel who destroyed God's heritage are described as a **heifer** grown fat and bellowing, indicating pride and indulgence before a fall [[Jeremiah 50:11]].
* **Idolatry and Judgment:** The word is connected to false worship, as the inhabitants of Samaria are said to **fear** because of the **calves** of Bethaven [[Hosea 10:5]]. This ties the image of a young bovine to the sin of idolatry that plagued Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5697}}` is far more than a simple agricultural term. It is a powerful and versatile symbol within Scripture. It illustrates concepts of purity and innocence required for sacred ritual, while also serving as a potent metaphor for the character, behavior, and ultimate fate of nations like Egypt, Moab, and Ephraim. From covenant ceremonies to prophetic warnings, the **heifer** carries significant theological weight, representing themes of atonement, discipline, and judgment.
TRV