The Hebrew word tachmâç, represented by H8464, refers to a specific type of unclean bird, identified as the night hawk. Its base definition suggests it is named for its violent nature. The word is rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses within the Old Testament.
The use of H8464 is exclusively found within the legal texts of the Pentateuch. In both Leviticus and Deuteronomy, tachmâç is included in the identical list of birds that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. It appears alongside other birds of prey and scavengers, being designated as ceremonially unclean under the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 11:16, Deuteronomy 14:15). Its context is strictly regulatory, helping to define the dietary boundaries for God's covenant people.
Several other words for birds appear in the immediate context of tachmâç, helping to illustrate the category of forbidden animals:
- H1323 & H3284 bath yaʻănâh: This combination is used for the owl. H1323 primarily means daughter but is used figuratively for "owl" in these lists, while H3284 is defined as the ostrich, also used for "owl" Leviticus 11:16. The pairing appears in desolate settings elsewhere in scripture Isaiah 34:13.
- H7828 shachaph: This word is translated as cuckow and is defined as "the gull (as thin)." It is listed directly after the night hawk in the lists of unclean birds Deuteronomy 14:15.
- H5322 nêts: Meaning hawk, this word is derived from a root signifying flashing speed. It appears at the end of the avian sequence containing tachmâç Leviticus 11:16. The same word can also mean blossom, highlighting a different kind of natural brilliance Genesis 40:10.
The theological significance of H8464 is rooted in the biblical concept of holiness and separation.
- Ceremonial Uncleanness: The inclusion of the night hawk in the list of forbidden foods is a direct expression of the laws of kashrut, which distinguished Israel from surrounding nations Leviticus 11:16.
- Symbol of Violence: The definition of tachmâç as being named "from its violence" connects its natural predatory behavior to its status as unclean. This suggests that animals associated with violence or death were considered incompatible with a holy diet.
- Legal Repetition: The exact repetition of this list in both Leviticus and Deuteronomy underscores its importance as a foundational tenet of the covenant law given to Moses, meant to be remembered and upheld across generations Deuteronomy 14:15.
In summary, H8464 tachmâç serves a very specific and focused role in scripture. While it is not part of a narrative, its presence in the legal codes is significant. As the "night hawk," it is a prime example of an animal deemed unclean, likely due to its predatory nature. Its inclusion helps to build the larger theological framework of holiness, separation, and divine order that was central to the life of ancient Israel.
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