Topical Bible: Stork: Migratory

◄ Stork: Migratory ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The stork is a large, long-legged, long-necked wading bird known for its migratory patterns. In the Bible, the stork is mentioned in several passages, often symbolizing fidelity and maternal care due to its nurturing behavior. The Hebrew word for stork is "חֲסִידָה" (chasidah), which is derived from "חֶסֶד" (chesed), meaning "kindness" or "loving-kindness," reflecting the bird's reputation for devotion to its young.

Biblical References:

1. Leviticus 11:19 and Deuteronomy 14:18 · The stork is listed among the unclean birds that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. "And the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat" (Leviticus 11:19). This classification underscores the distinctiveness of the stork within the created order, as part of the broader Levitical laws concerning purity and dietary restrictions.

2. Job 39:13 · The stork is mentioned in the context of God's creation and the diversity of the animal kingdom. "The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, but cannot match the pinions and feathers of the stork" . This passage highlights the stork's impressive plumage and its unique place among birds.

3. Psalm 104:17 · The psalmist describes the stork's nesting habits, emphasizing its preference for high places. "Where the birds build their nests; the stork makes her home in the cypresses" . This imagery reflects the stork's instinctual behavior and the providence of God in providing suitable habitats for His creatures.

4. Jeremiah 8:7 · The stork is noted for its migratory behavior, serving as a metaphor for the natural order and the wisdom inherent in creation. "Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the turtledove, swift, and thrush observe the time of their migration. But My people do not know the requirements of the LORD" . Here, the stork's migration is contrasted with the spiritual ignorance of the people, highlighting the bird's innate obedience to divine timing.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance:

In biblical symbolism, the stork is often associated with themes of care, fidelity, and the natural order. Its migratory nature is seen as a testament to God's design and the inherent wisdom placed within creation. The stork's return to its nesting grounds each year can be viewed as a symbol of faithfulness and reliability, qualities that are esteemed in biblical teaching.

The stork's role in the Bible also reflects the broader theological theme of God's sovereignty over nature. Its migratory patterns, as observed in Jeremiah 8:7, serve as a reminder of the Creator's intricate design and the orderliness of His creation. This understanding encourages believers to recognize and respect the divine wisdom evident in the natural world.

In summary, the stork in the Bible is a creature that exemplifies God's providence and the beauty of His creation. Its migratory behavior and nurturing instincts offer rich symbolism for understanding faithfulness and the divine order established by God.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 8:7
Yes, the stork in the heaven knows her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals.
... And a fresh difference between them is that some are stationary and non-migratory;
others undertake long voyages and the ... On the pious affection of the stork, cf ...
/.../basil/basil letters and select works/homily viii the creation of.htm