Topical Bible: Eagle: Gier-Eagle

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Topical Encyclopedia

The term "Gier-Eagle" is a translation found in some older versions of the Bible, referring to a specific type of bird mentioned in the Scriptures. In the Berean Standard Bible, the term is not explicitly used, but the concept is often associated with certain birds of prey, particularly those mentioned in the context of unclean animals.

Biblical References:

1. Leviticus 11:13-19 · In the dietary laws given to the Israelites, certain birds are listed as unclean and not to be eaten. The passage states: "These you shall regard as detestable among the birds; they must not be eaten because they are detestable: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the red kite, any kind of black kite, any kind of raven, the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat." While the term "Gier-Eagle" is not directly mentioned, the eagle and other birds of prey are included in this list.

2. Deuteronomy 14:12-18 · This passage reiterates the list of unclean birds, similar to the one in Leviticus, emphasizing the prohibition against consuming these birds. The eagle is again mentioned among the unclean birds.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance:

In biblical times, the eagle was a symbol of strength, swiftness, and keen vision. It was often used metaphorically to describe God's protection and deliverance. For instance, in Exodus 19:4, God tells the Israelites, "You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself." This imagery highlights the power and care of God in delivering His people.

The "Gier-Eagle," while not a specific species identified in modern translations, is often thought to refer to a type of vulture or carrion bird, given the context of unclean animals. These birds were associated with death and decay, which is why they were considered unclean under Mosaic Law.

Theological Implications:

The classification of certain birds as unclean in the Old Testament reflects the broader theme of holiness and separation that God required of His people. By abstaining from these birds, the Israelites were reminded of their distinct identity and their call to live according to God's standards.

The eagle, in its positive symbolic use, represents God's sovereignty and care, while the unclean birds, including those potentially identified as "Gier-Eagles," serve as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for purity and obedience to God's commands.

Conclusion:

The concept of the "Gier-Eagle" in biblical literature, while not explicitly named in modern translations, serves as a part of the broader biblical narrative concerning clean and unclean animals. It underscores the importance of understanding the cultural and symbolic meanings of animals in Scripture, as well as the theological lessons they convey.

Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 11:18
And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle,
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew

7360. racham -- carrion vulture
... gier- eagle. Or (feminine) rachamah {raw-khaw-maw'}; from racham; a kind of vulture
(supposed to be tender towards its young) -- gier- eagle. see HEBREW racham. ...
/hebrew/7360.htm - 6k

Library

Song to David
... His chest against the foes: Strong the gier-eagle [182] on his sail; ... [180] glede,
hawk. [181] Xiphias, sword-fish. [182] gier-eagle, probably, circling. ...
/.../palgrave/the treasury of sacred song/cciv song to david.htm

Adoration
... Strong is the lion"like a coal His eyeball"like a bastion's mole His chest against
the foes: Strong the gier-eagle on his sail; Strong against tide the ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/wells/bible stories and religious classics/adoration.htm