The Hebrew word râʼâh, represented by H7201, is a specific term for a bird of prey, likely a vulture, noted for its sharp sight. It is translated as "glede." This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance places it within a very specific legal context.
The sole occurrence of H7201 is found in a list of unclean animals that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. In Deuteronomy 14:13, it is listed alongside other birds of prey: "And the glede H7201, and the kite H344, and the vulture H1772 after his kind H4327". This context firmly identifies it as part of a category of creatures deemed ceremonially impure under the Mosaic Law.
The verse containing H7201 also includes several related words that help define its context and classification:
- H344 ʼayâh (the screamer, i.e. a hawk; kite, vulture): This term for a bird of prey is listed immediately with râʼâh, reinforcing the category of unclean birds. It is also mentioned in Job 28:7, which speaks of a path "which the vulture's H344 eye hath not seen."
- H1772 dayâh (a falcon (from its rapid flight); vulture): Also appearing in Deuteronomy 14:13, this word identifies another type of unclean bird. Its usage in Isaiah 34:15, where "the vultures H1772 also be gathered," further establishes its identity as a bird of prey.
- H4327 mîyn (a sort, i.e. species; kind): This word is used to classify the birds in Deuteronomy 14:13. It is a foundational term for classification that appears from the very beginning of scripture, such as when God commands the earth to bring forth plants "after his kind H4327" Genesis 1:11.
The significance of H7201 is derived entirely from its inclusion in the legal code of Deuteronomy. It does not carry broad theological weight on its own but contributes to the larger theme of holiness and separation in the Old Testament.
- Dietary Law: The primary role of this word is to help define the boundaries of what is clean and unclean for the nation of Israel, a key aspect of their covenant relationship with God Deuteronomy 14:13.
- Categorization: Its appearance with terms like "kite" H344, "vulture" H1772, and especially "after his kind" H4327 demonstrates a systematic and divinely ordered approach to the natural world.
- Echoes of Creation: The use of H4327 "kind" connects the dietary laws back to the order of creation, where God separated and defined creatures "after their kind" Genesis 1:21. This suggests the laws of purity reflect the original created order.
In summary, H7201 râʼâh is a highly specific term for a "glede," a type of bird of prey. Its single mention in Deuteronomy 14:13 places it squarely within the dietary laws of ancient Israel. While not a major theological term, its presence in this list, alongside other similar birds and the classifier "kind" H4327, highlights the detailed nature of the Mosaic Law and its function in establishing a holy and set-apart people.
TRV