### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼephrôach**, represented by `{{H667}}`, refers to the **brood of a bird** or a **young one**. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The word's origin suggests the act of bursting forth from a shell, emphasizing the newness and vulnerability of life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H667}}` consistently denotes the young offspring of birds, often found in a nest. In the law, it is mentioned as a key element in an act of mercy, where one finds a nest with either **young ones** or eggs and is commanded not to take the mother bird along with them [[Deuteronomy 22:6]]. The Psalms use it to paint a picture of security, where a swallow finds a nest at God's altars to lay her **young** [[Psalms 84:3]]. It is also used to describe the fierce dependency of young birds of prey, whose **young ones** suck up blood [[Job 39:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which `{{H667}}` is found:
* `{{H7064}}` **qên** (nest): This is the dwelling place for the **young ones**, appearing alongside `{{H667}}` in both Deuteronomy and Psalms. A man might wander from his place like a bird from its **nest** [[Proverbs 27:8]].
* `{{H1000}}` **bêytsâh** (egg): This represents the stage of life just before the **ʼephrôach**. The two terms are presented as alternatives in the same nest [[Deuteronomy 22:6]].
* `{{H517}}` **ʼêm** (dam, mother): This word highlights the parental relationship. In [[Deuteronomy 22:6]], the **dam** is found sitting upon her **young** or eggs, demonstrating maternal care.
* `{{H6833}}` **tsippôwr** (a little bird): This is the general term for a bird, often the parent of the **ʼephrôach**. The law concerns a **bird's** nest [[Deuteronomy 22:6]], and the Psalmist observes the **sparrow** finding a home [[Psalms 84:3]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H667}}` carries specific thematic weight in scripture:
* **Vulnerability and Dependence:** As helpless offspring, the **ʼephrôach** represents complete dependence on a parent for shelter, warmth, and food. This is seen in the mother bird's protection [[Deuteronomy 22:6]] and the feeding of her young [[Job 39:30]].
* **God's Providence and Mercy:** The law protecting the mother with her **young** demonstrates God's concern for the preservation of His creation and teaches compassion [[Deuteronomy 22:6]]. Furthermore, the image of the young being laid at God's altars suggests that the ultimate place of safety and refuge is with God himself [[Psalms 84:3]].
* **The Sanctity of the Family Unit:** By forbidding the taking of the dam with the young, the law underscores a principle of preserving the life-giving source along with its offspring, a foundational concept of family continuity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H667}}` is a precise term that, while used sparingly, provides a powerful image of new life. It moves beyond a simple biological label to become a vehicle for teaching significant principles. Through the **ʼephrôach**, scripture illustrates divine providence, commands human mercy, and paints a tender picture of vulnerability and dependence within the natural world, ultimately pointing to the security found in God.
TRV