### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râchâm** `{{H7360}}` identifies a type of vulture known as the **gier-eagle**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is derived from a root suggesting that the bird is tender towards its young.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{H7360}}` is mentioned exclusively within lists of unclean birds. Its appearances are part of the dietary laws given to the Israelites, which forbade them from eating certain animals. The **gier-eagle** is named as an unclean bird in both the initial giving of the law [[Leviticus 11:18]] and its later restatement [[Deuteronomy 14:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The word is always listed alongside other unclean birds, establishing its context within a specific category of forbidden animals:
* `{{H8580}}` **tanshemeth** (mole, swan): This word, for a creature described as a "hard breather," appears with the gier-eagle in the list of unclean fowl [[Leviticus 11:18]].
* `{{H6893}}` **qâʼath** (cormorant): Identified as the pelican, this bird is listed with the **gier-eagle** in both of its scriptural appearances ([[Leviticus 11:18]], [[Deuteronomy 14:17]]).
* `{{H7994}}` **shâlâk** (cormorant): This term for a bird of prey is also listed as unclean and appears next to the **gier-eagle** in the list found in Deuteronomy [[Deuteronomy 14:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7360}}` is entirely connected to the Old Testament laws of ritual purity.
* **Dietary Restriction:** The primary role of the term is to identify a specific creature that is not to be eaten, reinforcing the divine instructions for what is considered clean and unclean [[Leviticus 11:18]].
* **Symbol of Holiness:** By being designated as unclean, the **gier-eagle** serves as part of the larger legal framework that was meant to separate the nation of Israel and mark them as a people set apart for God.
* **Categorical Impurity:** Its consistent grouping with other birds of prey and waterfowl helps to define a whole class of animals deemed ritually impure under the Mosaic Covenant [[Deuteronomy 14:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **râchâm** `{{H7360}}` is a specific term for the **gier-eagle** found only in the context of Old Testament dietary law. Its limited usage firmly places its importance not in narrative or prophecy, but in its function as a marker of uncleanliness, contributing to the biblical concepts of holiness and separation.
TRV