The term "pygarg" appears in the Bible in the context of dietary laws given to the Israelites. It is mentioned in Deuteronomy 14:5, where it is listed among the clean animals that the Israelites were permitted to eat. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as follows: "the deer, the gazelle, the roe deer, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain sheep."

The Hebrew word translated as "pygarg" is "דִּישֹׁן" (dishon), which has been a subject of debate among scholars and translators. The term "pygarg" itself comes from the Greek word "πυγαργός" (pygargos), used in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures. The Greek term is derived from "pyge," meaning "rump," and "argos," meaning "white," suggesting an animal with a white rump.

In historical and zoological contexts, the pygarg is often identified as a type of antelope. Some scholars propose that it may refer to the addax (Addax nasomaculatus), a large antelope known for its distinctive twisted horns and pale coat, which includes a white rump. The addax is native to the Sahara Desert and surrounding regions, which aligns with the geographical context of the biblical narrative.

The identification of the pygarg as an antelope is supported by its inclusion in a list of animals that are generally understood to be wild, hoofed mammals, many of which are antelopes or similar creatures. The characteristics of the addax, such as its cloven hooves and cud-chewing behavior, fit the criteria for clean animals as outlined in Levitical law.

The mention of the pygarg in Deuteronomy highlights the diversity of wildlife known to the ancient Israelites and reflects the broader zoological knowledge of the time. The inclusion of such animals in the dietary laws underscores the importance of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals, a distinction that was central to the Israelites' covenantal relationship with God.

While the exact identity of the pygarg remains uncertain, its probable classification as an antelope illustrates the rich tapestry of creation and the specific guidelines given to God's people for living in accordance with His statutes. The study of such terms invites further exploration into the historical and cultural contexts of the biblical text, enriching our understanding of Scripture and its application to the lives of the faithful.Deuteronomy 14:5
The hart, and the roebuck, and the fallow deer, and the wild goat, and the pygarg, and the wild ox, and the chamois.
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