### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shôwr**, represented by `{{H7794}}`, refers to a **bullock, cow, or ox**. It appears **78 times** across **69 unique verses**, establishing its significance as a key animal in biblical life, law, and worship. The term is derived from a root suggesting a traveller, likely referencing its use in plowing or as a beast of burden. Notably, it is once used by mistake for a word meaning "wall" [[Genesis 49:6]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7794}}` is central to several key areas. It is frequently listed as a primary form of wealth and property, subject to laws against coveting [[Exodus 20:17]] and theft [[Exodus 22:1]]. Detailed regulations govern liability for an ox, including what happens if it harms a person or another animal [[Exodus 21:28-36]]. The ox's role in agriculture is highlighted by laws prohibiting muzzling it while it works [[Deuteronomy 25:4]]. It is also a significant animal for sacrifice [[Leviticus 9:4]] and a symbol of strength and productivity [[Proverbs 14:4]]. Conversely, its image is used in the context of idolatry [[Psalms 106:20]] and its natural instincts are contrasted with Israel's lack of knowledge [[Isaiah 1:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the role of livestock in ancient Israelite culture:
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (beef cattle or an animal of the ox family of either gender): This term is often used collectively for a herd. It is used to specify the restitution for a stolen **ox** `{{H7794}}`, where five **oxen** `{{H1241}}` are required as payment [[Exodus 22:1]].
* `{{H2543}}` **chămôwr** (a male ass): The ass is frequently mentioned alongside the **ox** in legal and domestic contexts, often as a parallel measure of property and responsibility ([[Deuteronomy 5:21]], [[1 Samuel 12:3]]).
* `{{H6499}}` **par** (a bullock): This word is often used interchangeably or in conjunction with **shôwr**, particularly in sacrificial contexts. A Psalm expresses that obedience pleases God more than an **ox** or **bullock** [[Psalms 69:31]].
* `{{H7716}}` **seh** (a member of a flock, i.e. a sheep or goat): This term for smaller cattle often appears with **shôwr** in lists of sacrificial animals [[Deuteronomy 17:1]] and legal disputes [[Exodus 22:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7794}}` is demonstrated in its application to divine law, worship, and symbolism.
* **Covenantal Law:** The **ox** is a cornerstone of Mosaic law, establishing principles of justice, property rights, and social responsibility. Laws regarding a lost, stolen, or dangerous **ox** define righteousness within the community ([[Exodus 23:4]], [[Deuteronomy 22:10]]).
* **Proper Worship:** A **bullock** was a prescribed offering for peace offerings [[Leviticus 9:18]]. The requirement that it be without blemish underscores the standard of holiness required when approaching God [[Deuteronomy 17:1]].
* **Symbol of Apostasy:** Israel's worship of the golden calf is described as changing their glory "into the similitude of an **ox** that eateth grass" [[Psalms 106:20]], making it a potent symbol of idolatry. Isaiah notes that hypocritical sacrifices, like the killing of an **ox** without a righteous heart, are an abomination [[Isaiah 66:3]].
* **Divine Imagery:** In Ezekiel's vision of the divine throne, one of the four living creatures has the face of an **ox**, placing it within the symbolic representation of God's creation and power [[Ezekiel 1:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7794}}` is a word with rich and varied meaning. While it denotes a common and economically vital animal, it also carries significant legal and spiritual weight. The **ox** or **bullock** functions as a measure of wealth, a subject of law, a means of worship, and a symbol for both divine strength and human rebellion. Its presence throughout Scripture illustrates how the mundane elements of daily life were woven into the theological fabric of Israel.
TRV