Topical Encyclopedia The eagle is a majestic bird often mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength, swiftness, and the divine. Various species of eagles are referenced throughout the Scriptures, each carrying significant metaphorical and theological implications.Biblical References and Symbolism 1. General Symbolism: The eagle is frequently used in the Bible to represent God's protection and care. In Exodus 19:4 , God tells the Israelites, "You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself." This imagery conveys the idea of divine deliverance and support. 2. Strength and Renewal: Isaiah 40:31 states, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." Here, the eagle symbolizes renewed strength and endurance, a promise to those who trust in God. 3. Swiftness and Judgment: The eagle is also a symbol of swiftness and impending judgment. In Deuteronomy 28:49 , it is written, "The LORD will bring a nation against you from afar, from the ends of the earth, like an eagle swooping down, a nation whose language you will not understand." This passage uses the eagle to depict the rapid and unavoidable nature of divine judgment. Different Kinds of Eagles in the Bible While the Bible does not specify particular species of eagles, it is likely that the authors were familiar with several types native to the regions of the ancient Near East. These include: 1. Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos): Known for its impressive size and strength, the golden eagle is a likely candidate for the biblical eagle. Its powerful flight and keen eyesight make it a fitting symbol for the attributes often associated with eagles in Scripture. 2. Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca): This species, also found in the Middle East, is another possible reference. The imperial eagle's regal appearance and commanding presence align with the biblical portrayal of eagles as symbols of power and majesty. 3. Short-toed Eagle (Circaetus gallicus): Although less commonly associated with biblical texts, the short-toed eagle is native to the region and could have been observed by biblical writers. Its distinctive hunting style and adaptability may have contributed to the broader symbolic use of eagles in the Bible. Cultural and Theological Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, eagles were revered for their strength and ability to soar to great heights. This cultural backdrop enhances the biblical use of eagles as metaphors for divine attributes and actions. The eagle's ability to fly high and see far distances made it an apt symbol for God's omniscience and omnipotence. The eagle's role in biblical literature extends beyond mere symbolism; it serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the hope of renewal and protection for His people. Through the imagery of the eagle, the Bible communicates profound truths about the nature of God and His relationship with humanity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 11:13,18And these are they which you shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten, they are an abomination: the eagle, and the ossifrage, and the ospray, Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 17:3 Library Spiritual Significance of the Precepts of Moses Respecting ... On the Different Kinds of Voluntary Actions, and the Sins Thence ... How Love is the Life of the Soul, and Continuation of the ... Conformity to Type For which Reason, Whatever Else There May be in the Writings of ... The Works of John Cassian. The Evolution of Language The Figurative Language of Scripture. Selections from the Work against Heresies by Irenaeus, Bishop of ... Let it be Granted, However, that There are Other Prophylactics ... Resources What are the seven trumpets of Revelation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the four beasts in Daniel chapter 7? | GotQuestions.org Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Eagle: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Eagle: Carries Her Young Upon Her Wings The Eagle of Great and Powerful Kings The Eagle of Wisdom and Zeal of God's Ministers The Eagle was the Standard of the Roman Armies The Eagle: (Hasting to the Prey) of the Swiftness of Man's Days The Eagle: (Height and Security of Its Dwelling) of the Fancied But The Eagle: (Increase Baldness of, in the Moulting Season) of The Eagle: (Mode of Teaching Her Young to Fly) of God's Care of His The Eagle: (Renewed Strength and Beauty of) the Renewal of Saints The Eagle: (Swiftness of) the Melting Away of Riches The Eagle: (Swiftness of) the Swiftness of Hostile Armies The Eagle: (Upward Flight of) the Saint's Rapid Progress Toward The Eagle: (Wings of) Protection Afforded to the Church The Eagle: Called the Eagle of the Heavens The Eagle: Delights in the Lofty Cedars The Eagle: Dwells in the High Rocks The Eagle: Feeds Her Young With Blood The Eagle: Greatness of Its Wings Alluded To The Eagle: Peculiarity of Its Flight Alluded To The Eagle: Strength of Its Feathers Alluded To Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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