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