from עוּף; a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively; bird, that flieth, flying, fowl.
Transliteration:ʻôwph
Pronunciation:ofe
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5775}}` (ʻôwph) primarily denotes "a bird" or "fowl." Its etymology traces directly to the verb `{{H5774}}` (ʻûph), meaning "to fly" or "to hover." This etymological link is crucial, as `{{H5775}}` functions as a noun derived from this action, literally signifying "that which flies" or "flying creature." The base definition further elaborates, describing birds "as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings," emphasizing their characteristic mode of locomotion and physical attributes. Importantly, `{{H5775}}` is often used collectively, encompassing all types of winged creatures, from small birds to larger fowl, whether wild or domesticated, clean or unclean according to the Mosaic Law. Its semantic range is broad, covering the entire avian kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5775}}` appears extensively throughout the Old Testament, illuminating various aspects of creation, law, and prophecy.
In the creation account, `{{H5775}}` is first mentioned as part of God's creative work on the fifth day: "Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the heavens" [[Genesis 1:20]]. God then creates "every winged bird according to its kind" [[Genesis 1:21]], establishing their origin directly from divine command. Humanity is subsequently given dominion over these creatures [[Genesis 1:26]], [[Genesis 1:28]], and `{{H5775}}` are included in the provision of green plants for food [[Genesis 1:30]].
During the Flood narrative, `{{H5775}}` is repeatedly mentioned as among the creatures gathered into Noah's ark and those destroyed by the deluge [[Genesis 6:7]], [[Genesis 7:3]], [[Genesis 7:14]], [[Genesis 8:17]]. This highlights the comprehensive nature of both divine judgment and preservation.
In the Mosaic Law, particularly in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, `{{H5775}}` features prominently in the dietary regulations, distinguishing between clean and unclean birds [[Leviticus 11:13-19]], [[Deuteronomy 14:11-20]]. Specific clean birds, such as turtledoves or young pigeons, were prescribed for certain sacrifices, underscoring their role in Israelite worship and atonement [[Leviticus 1:14]].
Beyond legal contexts, `{{H5775}}` appears in wisdom literature and prophetic texts. [[Psalm 8:8]] affirms humanity's dominion over "the birds of the heavens." [[Psalm 78:27]] describes God's provision of quail as "winged fowl" during Israel's wilderness wanderings. The absence of `{{H5775}}` is often a sign of desolation and divine judgment, as seen in prophetic warnings like [[Jeremiah 4:25]], where the prophet laments, "I looked, and behold, there was no man, and all the birds of the heavens had fled."
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to `{{H5775}}` is its verbal root, `{{H5774}}` (ʻûph), "to fly," which describes the characteristic action of these creatures. While `{{H5775}}` is a general term for all flying creatures, the Hebrew Bible also employs more specific terms for various bird species, such as נֶשֶׁר (eagle), יוֹנָה (dove), עֹרֵב (raven), and צִפּוֹר (`{{H6833}}`, often "small bird" or "sparrow"), all of which fall under the broader category of `{{H5775}}`. The common biblical idiom "fowl of the air" or "birds of the heavens" (e.g., [[Genesis 1:26]], [[Psalm 8:8]]) further emphasizes their domain and position in the created order. The concept of `{{H5775}}` is thus intricately linked with themes of creation, sustenance, dominion, purity, and judgment within the biblical narrative.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5775}}` is multifaceted. Firstly, its repeated mention in the creation narrative underscores God's absolute sovereignty and power as the Creator of all living things, including the vast array of avian life. The very existence of `{{H5775}}` testifies to divine wisdom and design. Secondly, the biblical text consistently portrays God's providential care for `{{H5775}}`. He provides for their needs, a truth later echoed in the New Testament to illustrate God's care for humanity ([[Matthew 6:26]]). This highlights the divine attribute of being a faithful provider for all creation. Thirdly, the concept of humanity's dominion over `{{H5775}}` (and all creation) establishes a foundational principle of stewardship. Humans are entrusted with the care and management of these creatures, reflecting God's own benevolent rule. Furthermore, the inclusion of `{{H5775}}` in the dietary laws of the Torah emphasizes the distinction between clean and unclean, serving as a pedagogical tool for Israel to understand holiness and separation unto God. Finally, `{{H5775}}` often carries symbolic weight in Scripture: their freedom of movement can represent liberty or swiftness, their vulnerability can highlight dependence on divine provision, and their absence in prophetic passages frequently signifies divine judgment and desolation upon the land.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5775}}` (ʻôwph) is a comprehensive term for "bird" or "fowl," derived from the verb "to fly." It collectively refers to all winged creatures and is foundational to understanding the biblical depiction of the avian world. From their creation by divine fiat and their preservation during the Flood, to their role in Israel's dietary laws and sacrificial system, `{{H5775}}` appears in diverse and significant biblical contexts. Theologically, `{{H5775}}` serves as a testament to God's creative power, His meticulous providential care for all living things, and humanity's God-given responsibility as stewards of creation. Its presence or absence in various narratives also conveys symbolic meaning, reflecting themes of life, judgment, and divine provision.
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