The term "wingspan" refers to the distance from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other wing in birds and other winged creatures. While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "wingspan," the concept of wings and their symbolic meanings are prevalent throughout the Scriptures. Wings often symbolize protection, speed, and divine intervention.

Symbolism of Wings in Scripture

1. Protection and Refuge: Wings are frequently used as a metaphor for God's protection and care. In Psalm 91:4, the psalmist writes, "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart." This imagery conveys the idea of God as a nurturing and protective figure, much like a bird shielding its young under its wings.

2. Divine Deliverance: Wings also symbolize deliverance and salvation. In Exodus 19:4, God reminds the Israelites of their deliverance from Egypt, saying, "You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself." Here, the wings of an eagle represent God's powerful and swift action in rescuing His people.

3. Speed and Swiftness: The imagery of wings is used to describe speed and swiftness. In Isaiah 40:31, it is written, "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." The eagle's wings symbolize renewed strength and the ability to rise above challenges with agility and vigor.

4. Judgment and Sovereignty: Wings can also be associated with judgment and the sovereignty of God. In Ezekiel 1:6-11, the prophet describes the vision of the cherubim, each having four wings. These creatures, with their majestic wingspans, signify the omnipresence and omnipotence of God, as well as His authority over creation.

Wings in Apocalyptic Literature

In the apocalyptic literature of the Bible, wings often appear in visions and symbolic imagery. In the book of Revelation, wings are used to describe the swiftness and protection of divine messengers. Revelation 12:14 states, "But the woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of for a time, times, and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach." Here, the wings of a great eagle symbolize divine protection and escape from persecution.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not specifically mention "wingspan," the concept of wings is rich with symbolic meaning throughout the Scriptures. Wings represent God's protection, deliverance, and sovereignty, as well as the speed and strength granted to those who trust in Him. The imagery of wings serves as a powerful reminder of the divine care and authority that encompasses all of creation.3671. kanaph -- wing, extremity
... 1), ends (3), fold (2), garment (1), kind (3), skirt (3), skirts (1), sorts (1),
wing (14), winged (5), wings (58), wings were each other (1), wingspan (1). ...
/hebrew/3671.htm - 6kWingspan (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Wingspan (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 3:11 And
the wings of the cherubim were twenty cubits long: the wing ...
/w/wingspan.htm - 6k

Wink (2 Occurrences)

/w/wink.htm - 9k

Wings (81 Occurrences)

/w/wings.htm - 34k

How tall was Adam? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus