### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôrêʼ**, represented by `{{H7124}}`, means **partridge**. The name itself is derived from the idea of a "caller," a reference to the bird's distinctive cry. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, where it is used symbolically to illustrate themes of persecution and unjust gain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two biblical occurrences of `{{H7124}}` present the **partridge** in distinct metaphorical contexts. In [[1 Samuel 26:20]], David, hiding from King Saul, compares himself to the bird, asking why the king of Israel has come out "to seek a flea, as when one doth hunt a **partridge** in the mountains." Here, the image emphasizes vulnerability and the futility of a powerful king pursuing a defenseless individual. In contrast, [[Jeremiah 17:11]] uses the bird in a proverb: "As the **partridge** sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right," warning that such gains will be lost and end in folly.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context surrounding the **partridge** imagery:
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after): Used in [[1 Samuel 26:20]] to describe how one does "hunt" a partridge. This word often implies a hostile chase or persecution, capturing the intensity of Saul's pursuit of David.
* `{{H1245}}` **bâqash** (to search out): This word describes Saul's mission to "seek" David, who likens himself to a single flea [[1 Samuel 26:20]]. The term is also frequently used in scripture to describe the act of seeking God.
* `{{H1716}}` **dâgar** (to brood over eggs or young): This verb is directly paired with the **partridge** in [[Jeremiah 17:11]], where it "sitteth" on eggs. It describes the act of nesting and gathering, which in this proverb, leads to a failed outcome.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young): Translated as "hatcheth" in [[Jeremiah 17:11]], this word highlights the failure of the partridge's efforts. The eggs it sits on do not result in new life, symbolizing the ultimate barrenness of dishonest labor.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7124}}` is found in its powerful symbolism. The word is used to convey pointed moral and spiritual lessons.
* **A Symbol of the Persecuted Innocent:** In David's speech, the hunted **partridge** becomes a figure for the righteous individual unjustly targeted by a greater power. It is an appeal for justice before the LORD [[1 Samuel 26:20]].
* **A Metaphor for Unjust Gain:** Jeremiah employs the **partridge** to illustrate the principle that wealth acquired "not by right" is ultimately insecure and leads to ruin. The effort invested is futile, as the gains will be abandoned [[Jeremiah 17:11]].
* **A Warning Against Folly:** Both uses serve as a caution. David highlights the foolishness of Saul's massive effort to catch one insignificant man, while Jeremiah declares that the one who gains riches unjustly will be a "fool" in the end [[Jeremiah 17:11]].
### Summary
In summary, though rare, `{{H7124}}` **qôrêʼ** serves as a potent and memorable symbol in scripture. As the hunted **partridge**, it illustrates the plight of the vulnerable and the unjustly persecuted. As the nesting **partridge**, it becomes a stark warning against the futility and foolishness of acquiring wealth through dishonest means, demonstrating how biblical imagery can convey profound lessons on justice and righteousness.
TRV