The Hebrew word ʼarnebeth, represented by H768, is the term for the hare. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, with both instances occurring within the context of Old Testament dietary laws. Its significance is tied directly to its classification as an animal that is forbidden to be eaten.
In the biblical narrative, H768 is mentioned exclusively in lists that distinguish between clean and unclean animals. The law given in Leviticus and Deuteronomy forbids eating the hare because, while it is described as an animal that chews the cud H1625, it does not have a divided hoof H6541. This failure to meet both criteria for a clean land animal results in its designation as unclean H2931 and therefore prohibited as food H398 for the Israelites (Leviticus 11:6; Deuteronomy 14:7).
Several related words are essential for understanding the classification of the hare:
- H2931 ṭâmêʼ (defiled, [phrase] infamous, polluted(-tion), unclean): This term establishes the ritual status of the hare. Because it does not meet the full criteria for a clean animal, it is designated as unclean and forbidden Leviticus 11:6.
- H1625 gêrâh (the cud (as scraping the throat)): This noun identifies the substance that the hare is described as bringing up, which is the first of the two key characteristics used for its classification Deuteronomy 14:7.
- H6536 pâraç (to break in pieces, i.e. (usually without violence) to split, distribute): This verb describes the requirement for the hoof to be split, a characteristic the hare lacks, making it unclean Leviticus 11:6.
- H8227 shâphân (a species of rockrabbit (from its hiding), i.e. probably the hyrax; coney): The coney is listed alongside the hare and the camel H1581 as another example of an animal that is unclean for the same reason Deuteronomy 14:7.
The theological significance of H768 is rooted in the principles of holiness and obedience that underpin the dietary laws.
- Holiness Through Distinction: The classification of the hare as unclean H2931 serves as a practical lesson in making distinctions. The law required the people to differentiate between the clean and the unclean, which was a foundational principle of living a holy life set apart for God Ezekiel 22:26.
- Obedience to Divine Categories: The prohibition against eating the hare was a test of obedience to a divinely established system. The specific criteria of chewing the cud H1625 and having a divided hoof H6541 created a clear standard that was to be followed without question Deuteronomy 14:7.
- A Symbol of the Forbidden: By being explicitly named in the law, the hare becomes a clear and memorable example of what must be avoided. It serves as a tangible illustration of the broader biblical concept that contact with what is unclean leads to defilement Isaiah 52:11.
In summary, H768 is a narrowly defined term for the hare, used exclusively to classify it as an unclean animal in the Torah. While its appearances are minimal, its role is significant. It functions as a key example within the biblical laws of purity, illustrating the themes of divine order, the importance of obedience, and the call for God's people to live lives of holiness through careful distinction and separation from the unclean.
TRV