Topical Encyclopedia The rhinoceros, a large, thick-skinned herbivorous mammal known for its distinctive horned snout, is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, some scholars and theologians have speculated that certain biblical references to large, powerful animals might be interpreted as descriptions of creatures similar to the rhinoceros.Biblical References and Interpretations 1. Re'em (Wild Ox or Unicorn): The Hebrew word "re'em" appears in several Old Testament passages and is often translated as "wild ox" or "unicorn" in various Bible versions. For example, in Numbers 23:22 , it states, "God brought them out of Egypt; He is for them like the horns of the wild ox." Some have suggested that the "re'em" could be a reference to a rhinoceros due to its formidable strength and singular horn, although traditional interpretations favor the aurochs, an extinct type of large wild cattle. 2. Job's Behemoth: In the book of Job, a creature called "Behemoth" is described in detail. Job 40:15-24 portrays Behemoth as a powerful, grass-eating animal with strong limbs and a tail like a cedar. While many scholars identify Behemoth with the hippopotamus or an elephant, some have speculated that the description could also fit a rhinoceros, given its size and strength. However, the mention of a "tail like a cedar" is more consistent with other large animals. 3. Symbolism of Strength and Power: Throughout the Bible, animals are often used symbolically to convey attributes such as strength, power, and majesty. The rhinoceros, with its imposing presence and formidable horn, could be seen as a symbol of these qualities. In biblical times, the presence of such a creature would have been a powerful reminder of God's creation and the diversity of life He sustains. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, where the biblical texts were written, the rhinoceros was not native. However, trade routes and interactions with distant lands might have brought knowledge of such exotic animals to the region. The rhinoceros was known in ancient Egypt and other parts of Africa, and it is possible that accounts or depictions of the animal reached the Israelites through trade or conquest. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the potential allusions to creatures like the rhinoceros in the Bible can serve as a reminder of the vastness and diversity of God's creation. Each animal, whether explicitly mentioned or not, reflects the creativity and power of the Creator. The strength and majesty of the rhinoceros can inspire awe and reverence for God's handiwork, encouraging believers to appreciate the natural world as a testament to His glory and sovereignty. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Any pachyderm belonging to the genera Rhinoceros, Atelodus, and several allied genera of the family Rhinocerotidae, of which several living, and many extinct, species are known. They are large and powerful, and usually have either one or two stout conical median horns on the snout.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RHINOCEROSri-nos'-er-os: This word is found in the King James Version margin to Isaiah 34:7 ("rhinocerots") for re'emim, the King James Version "unicorns," the Revised Version (British and American) "wild-oxen." The word is quite inappropriate to the passage, which refers to the land of Edom. The one-horned rhinoceros, Rhinoceros unicornis, is confined to India. Other rhinoceroses are found in India and in equatorial Africa, but it is hardly to be presumed that these animals were meant by the Hebrew writers. Library On the Animals The Martyrdom Concerning the Passion of Christ, and Its Old Testament ... Orthodoxy i. Introduction in Defence of Everything Else 'The Hands of the Mighty God of Jacob' Family Habits. Prior Hugh The Gathering Storm Comfort for the Desponding Eutyches and Philip in Profundis Thesaurus Rhinoceros... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Any pachyderm belonging to the genera Rhinoceros, Atelodus, and several allied ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. RHINOCEROS. ... /r/rhinoceros.htm - 7k Ox (197 Occurrences) Wild (147 Occurrences) Zoology Rhoda (1 Occurrence) Rhesa (1 Occurrence) Behemoth (1 Occurrence) Calf (39 Occurrences) Coney (2 Occurrences) Resources Why does the KJV Bible mention the unicorn? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the behemoth? | GotQuestions.org Rhinoceros: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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