Topical Bible: Beasts: Clean: Fallow Deer

◄ Beasts: Clean: Fallow Deer ►

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

Topical Encyclopedia

The fallow deer is mentioned in the context of clean animals in the Bible, specifically in the Old Testament. In Deuteronomy 14:5, the fallow deer is listed among the animals that the Israelites were permitted to eat: "the deer, the gazelle, the roe deer, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain sheep." . This classification as a clean animal indicates that the fallow deer met the dietary laws given by God to the Israelites, which were intended to set them apart as a holy people.

The Hebrew word often translated as "fallow deer" is "yachmur," which has been a subject of debate among scholars regarding its exact identification. However, it is generally accepted that the term refers to a type of deer or similar animal that was familiar to the ancient Israelites. The fallow deer, known for its distinctive palmate antlers and spotted coat, is native to the Middle East and surrounding regions, making it a plausible candidate for the biblical "yachmur."

In the context of biblical dietary laws, clean animals were those that chewed the cud and had a split hoof (Leviticus 11:3). While the specific characteristics of the fallow deer are not detailed in the biblical text, its inclusion in the list of clean animals suggests that it met these criteria. The fallow deer, like other clean animals, was considered suitable for consumption and sacrifice, reflecting its acceptance in the religious and cultural practices of the Israelites.

The mention of the fallow deer in the Bible highlights the importance of dietary laws in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people. By adhering to these laws, the Israelites demonstrated their obedience and commitment to God's commandments. The fallow deer, as a clean animal, symbolizes the provision and care of God for His people, offering them sustenance that was both permissible and pleasing in His sight.

In summary, the fallow deer is recognized in the Bible as a clean animal, permissible for consumption under the dietary laws given to the Israelites. Its inclusion in the scriptural text underscores the significance of these laws in the life and faith of the ancient Israelite community.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Of Removing Tithes.
... in that year in which it lies fallow, unless it ... made into hay, shall not, although
beasts of the ... tenth morning and evening's meal in clean vessels belonging to ...
/.../prideaux/directions to church-wardens/8 of removing tithes.htm

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the ... of roes, stags, fallow-deer, boars,
hares, and such like game? ... cries aloud [4721] All things are clean to the ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm