The term "shephanim" refers to the creatures mentioned in the Bible, often identified as the rock hyrax or coney. These small, herbivorous mammals are native to the rocky terrains of the Middle East and Africa. The Hebrew word "שְׁפַנִּים" (shephanim) is translated in various Bible versions as "coney" or "rock badger."

Biblical References:

1. Leviticus 11:5 : "The coney, though it chews the cud, does not have a split hoof; it is unclean for you." In this passage, the shephanim is listed among the animals considered unclean for the Israelites. The description of chewing the cud, despite not having a split hoof, aligns with the behavior of the rock hyrax, which practices a form of pseudo-rumination.

2. Deuteronomy 14:7 : "But of those that chew the cud or have split hooves, you are not to eat the following: the camel, the rabbit, and the coney." Here, the shephanim is again mentioned in the dietary laws given to the Israelites, emphasizing its status as an unclean animal.

3. Psalm 104:18 : "The high mountains are for the wild goats, the cliffs a refuge for the coneys." This verse highlights the natural habitat of the shephanim, which are known to dwell in rocky, mountainous regions. The psalmist uses the shephanim to illustrate God's provision for all creatures, providing them with suitable habitats.

4. Proverbs 30:26 : "the coneys are creatures of little power, yet they make their homes in the rocks." In this proverb, the shephanim are noted for their wisdom in choosing secure and strategic dwelling places despite their vulnerability. This serves as a metaphor for finding strength and safety in wise choices.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, the shephanim were well-known to the people due to their prevalence in the region's rocky landscapes. Their mention in the dietary laws underscores the importance of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals, a significant aspect of Israelite identity and religious practice. The shephanim's behavior and habitat provided rich imagery for biblical writers, who used them to convey spiritual truths and observations about God's creation.

Theological Significance:

The references to shephanim in Scripture serve as reminders of God's intricate design and care for all creatures. They illustrate the principle that even the seemingly insignificant or weak can find refuge and security through wisdom and divine provision. The dietary laws, including the classification of the shephanim as unclean, reflect the broader theme of holiness and separation that permeates the Old Testament, pointing to the distinct identity and calling of God's people.

In summary, the shephanim, or rock hyrax, is a small but significant creature within the biblical narrative, symbolizing wisdom, divine provision, and the importance of adhering to God's commandments.8227a. shaphan -- hyrax
... hyrax. Transliteration: shaphan Short Definition: shaphan. Word Origin from an unused
word Definition hyrax NASB Word Usage shaphan (2), shephanim (2). ...
/hebrew/8227a.htm - 5kShephanim (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shephanim (2 Occurrences). Psalms 104:18 The high mountains
are for the wild goats. The rocks are a refuge for the rock badgers. ...
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Shephathiah (1 Occurrence)

/s/shephathiah.htm - 6k

Shepham (2 Occurrences)

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