### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tôwr**, represented by `{{H8449}}`, is the term for a **ring-dove** or **turtledove**. It appears 14 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible. While literally referring to the bird, it is also used figuratively as a term of endearment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law, `{{H8449}}` plays a key role as an acceptable offering, particularly for those who cannot afford a lamb for a sin or burnt offering ([[Leviticus 5:7]], [[Leviticus 12:8]]). It was one of the animals brought by Abram for the covenant ceremony with God [[Genesis 15:9]]. Figuratively, the "voice of the turtle" is a sign that the time of singing has come and winter is past [[Song of Solomon 2:12]]. Jeremiah uses the **turtle** as an example of an animal that knows its seasons, contrasting it with a people who do not know the judgment of the Lord [[Jeremiah 8:7]]. The psalmist also refers to Israel as God's **turtledove** in a plea for protection [[Psalms 74:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for birds in scripture:
* `{{H3123}}` **yôwnâh** (a dove, pigeon): This word is frequently paired with **tôwr**, as many prescribed offerings allowed for "two turtledoves, or two young pigeons" [[Leviticus 5:7]]. Like **tôwr**, it is also used as a term of endearment [[Song of Solomon 6:9]].
* `{{H1469}}` **gôwzâl** (a nestling; young pigeon): This term specifies a young bird and appears alongside **tôwr** in the description of the animals Abram prepared for his covenant with God [[Genesis 15:9]].
* `{{H2624}}` **chăçîydâh** (the kind (maternal) bird, i.e. a stork): The **stork** is mentioned with the **turtle** and other birds to illustrate an innate understanding of seasons and appointed times, which the people of Israel lacked [[Jeremiah 8:7]].
* `{{H5775}}` **ʻôwph** (a bird, fowl): This is a general term for birds or fowl. Leviticus establishes that if a burnt sacrifice is to be of **fowls**, it can be of **turtledoves** or young pigeons [[Leviticus 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and figurative weight of `{{H8449}}` is evident in its various uses:
* **Provision in Worship:** The turtledove's role as a substitute for a more expensive animal, such as a lamb, shows a provision for the poor to fulfill their obligations for sin offerings and purification ([[Leviticus 12:8]], [[Leviticus 14:22]]).
* **Covenantal Element:** Its inclusion in the solemn covenant God establishes with Abram highlights its significance in foundational biblical events [[Genesis 15:9]].
* **Symbol of God's People:** Israel is referred to as God's **turtledove**, a term suggesting affection and vulnerability, particularly when the nation is in need of deliverance from its enemies [[Psalms 74:19]].
* **A Sign of Divine Order:** The turtledove's instinctual awareness of seasons serves as a prophetic illustration, contrasting the reliability of the natural world with humanity's failure to recognize God's timing and judgment [[Jeremiah 8:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8449}}` is more than just the name of a bird. It is a key element in the laws of worship, a component in a foundational covenant, and a rich poetic symbol. From its practical role in sacrificial atonement to its figurative use representing both the changing seasons and the cherished people of God, **tôwr** demonstrates how a single word can convey deep legal, prophetic, and relational meaning.
TRV