or עַתֻּד; from עָתַד; prepared, i.e. full grown; spoken only (in plural) of he-goats, or (figuratively) leaders of the people; chief one, (he) goat, ram.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻattûwd**, represented by `{{H6260}}`, primarily refers to a full-grown **he-goat**. It appears 29 times in 29 verses. While often used literally to denote livestock, it is also employed figuratively to describe the **leaders** or **chief ones** of a people, drawing on the imagery of a male goat leading a flock.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{H6260}}` is frequently listed among animals designated for sacrifice and commerce. During the dedication of the altar, the princes of Israel brought offerings that included "five he goats" [[Numbers 7:17]]. These animals were also a measure of wealth, as seen in the statement that "the goats are the price of the field" [[Proverbs 27:26]]. Figuratively, the term is used to represent human leaders. The people of Israel are told to "be as the he goats before the flocks" when leaving Babylon, signifying a call to leadership [[Jeremiah 50:8]]. In a vision of judgment, the term is used for the "chief ones of the earth" who are stirred from their thrones in the afterlife [[Isaiah 14:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H6260}}`, particularly within sacrificial and pastoral settings:
* `{{H352}}` **ʼayil** (ram): Often mentioned alongside he-goats in lists of sacrificial animals. In [[Isaiah 1:11]], the LORD rejects "burnt offerings of rams" and the blood of "he goats." Like `{{H6260}}`, it can also figuratively mean a "chief (politically)."
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a flock): This collective term for a flock of sheep or goats provides the context for the leadership role of the he-goat. The instruction to be "as the he goats before the flocks" [[Jeremiah 50:8]] directly connects the leader `{{H6260}}` to the people they guide `{{H6629}}`.
* `{{H6499}}` **par** (bullock): As a young bull, this animal frequently appears with he-goats in sacrificial contexts, such as the offerings for the dedication of the altar [[Numbers 7:88]] and in prophecies of judgment [[Ezekiel 39:18]].
* `{{H2077}}` **zebach** (a sacrifice): This word describes the act for which he-goats were often intended. The LORD is described as having a "sacrifice in Bozrah" and a "great slaughter" that includes goats [[Isaiah 34:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6260}}` is evident in its dual application to animals and people.
* **Sacrificial System:** The he-goat was an integral part of the offerings presented to God, especially the **peace offering** `{{H8002}}`, defined as a voluntary sacrifice in thanks [[Numbers 7:23]]. However, God makes it clear that he takes no delight in these sacrifices without a righteous heart [[Isaiah 1:11]].
* **Leadership and Judgment:** The term is used to symbolize leaders who are accountable to God. In Zechariah, God's anger is kindled against the shepherds, and he punishes the "goats" `{{H6260}}`, equating the animals with failed leaders [[Zechariah 10:3]]. In Ezekiel, God judges between the flock, specifically "between the rams and the he goats" [[Ezekiel 34:17]].
* **Prophetic Imagery:** In prophecies, he-goats are used as symbols in divine judgment. The "chief ones" `{{H6260}}` of the earth are pictured in Hell [[Isaiah 14:9]], and the enemies of the LORD are brought down for slaughter like rams and he-goats [[Jeremiah 51:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6260}}` carries a meaning that transitions from the pastoral to the political. As a literal **he-goat**, it is a key animal in Israel's economy and worship, particularly in sacrificial offerings. As a figurative term for **leaders** and **chief ones**, it serves as a powerful metaphor for guidance, authority, and accountability before God, whether for leading a nation or facing judgment.
TRV