Topical Encyclopedia The vulture and the kite are two birds mentioned in the Bible, often associated with desolation and uncleanliness. These birds are part of the avian family that is considered unclean according to the dietary laws given to the Israelites.Biblical References: 1. Leviticus 11:13-14 · "Additionally, you are to regard the following birds as unclean and not to be eaten: the eagle, the bearded vulture, the black vulture, the kite, any kind of falcon." In this passage, the vulture and the kite are explicitly listed among the birds that are not to be consumed by the Israelites. This prohibition underscores their status as unclean animals. 2. Deuteronomy 14:12-13 · "But these you may not eat: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, the red kite, the black kite, and any kind of falcon." Here, the kite is again mentioned alongside the vulture, reinforcing the dietary restrictions placed upon these birds. 3. Job 28:7 · "No bird of prey knows that path; no falcon’s eye has seen it." While not directly mentioning the vulture or kite, this verse highlights the keen eyesight of birds of prey, a characteristic shared by both vultures and kites. 4. Isaiah 34:15 · "There the owl will make her nest and lay her eggs; she will hatch and gather her young under her shadow. Even the birds of prey will gather there, each with its mate." This passage, while not naming vultures or kites specifically, describes a scene of desolation where birds of prey, including vultures, are present. Symbolism and Significance: In biblical literature, vultures and kites often symbolize desolation, judgment, and the aftermath of divine retribution. Their presence is frequently associated with places of ruin and destruction, serving as a reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience. The imagery of these birds consuming the remains of the fallen in battle or disaster underscores the completeness of divine judgment. Cultural and Natural Context: Vultures and kites are scavengers, feeding primarily on carrion. This natural behavior contributes to their classification as unclean in the biblical context, as they are seen as consumers of death and decay. In the ancient Near East, these birds were common and would have been familiar to the Israelites, making them effective symbols in biblical narratives. Conclusion: The vulture and the kite, as depicted in the Bible, serve as powerful symbols of uncleanliness and divine judgment. Their role in the biblical narrative is to remind the faithful of the importance of obedience to God's laws and the consequences of turning away from His commandments. Through their mention in Scripture, these birds contribute to the rich tapestry of imagery that conveys spiritual truths and moral lessons. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 34:15There shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 344. ayyah -- a hawk, falcon, kite... kite, vulture. Perhaps from 'iy; the screamer, ie A hawk -- kite, vulture. see HEBREW 'iy. 343, 344. ayyah. 345 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/344.htm - 6k 1676. daah -- perhaps kite (a bird of prey) 1772. dayyah -- perhaps a kite (a bird of prey) Library The Allegories an Afterthought. The Eagle and Its Brood The Secrets of Divine Love are to be Kept Preface. What is Sanctification? The Apology of Aristides as it is Preserved in the History of ... The Nations of the North-East Argument. --And Thus Unclean Animals are not to be Reproached ... Of the Torments and Punishments of Souls. The Hidden Path The Pharisees' Sabbath and Christ's Resources Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgVulture: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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