### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
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