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"!#"$#%$&%'&(')(*)+*,+-,.-/.0/102132435465768795:5;5<5=5>5?5@5A5B5 C5 D5 E5 F5 G5H5I5J5K5L5M5N5O5P5Q5R5S5T5U5V5W5X5Y5 Z5![5"\5#]5$^5%_5&`5'a5(b5)c5*d5+e5,f5-g5.h5/i50j51k52l53m54n55o56p@q@r@s@t@u@v@w@x@y@ z@ {@ |@ }@ ~@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"P#P$P%P&P'P(P)P*P+P,P-P.P/P0P1P2P3P4P5cccccccccc c c c c ccccccccccccccccccc c!c#c#@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"Jifdhfirh5Hvf`hxmm@-`ddfu`pw`pwfmrsf`sf`vs`vva`arrpa`dhfu a`w af`u aff affwmf afiforwiajwwfupam`blzxmwxufar`uaxblaxgg`mraxmmaxmmrblaxvw`udb`mgb`ofmb`plfu{ruob`wb`wfusjmm`ub`wwmfbi`ofmfrpbi`orjvbijblfpbrau` brbl!brbl`wujbf"brpf}#bruoru`pw$br{%bu`pf&bujblfw(burbrdjmf'bur{)bxblrr*bxblr{+dffu,drh-drplf}.drzf/du`hrp0durofd`u}1f`hmf2f`hmfr{m3fmfsi`pw4f{f5g`mbrp6g`mmr{dffu7g`{p5gfuufw5gjvi5gjvifur{m5gmf`5gm}5gr{m5gr|5gurh5h`~fmmf5 hfblr5 hjfuf`hmf5 hmfdf5 hp`w5 hr`w5hrrvf5hu`vvirssfu5huf`wmj~`ud5huf`wr{m5huf}irxpd5hujggrp5huxa5i`uf5i`{l5ifdhfirh5ifjgfu5ifp5ifurp5ijpd5ijssrsrw`oxv5irrsrf5irupfdr{m5irupfw5 iruvf5!iruvfmf`bi5"irxpd5#i}fp`5$jaf|5%k`bl`m5&k`bld`{5'kfuar`5(l`w}djd5)ljd5*ljpf5+ljwf5,m`oa5-m`s{jph5.mffbi5/mfrs`ud50mfzj`wi`p51mjbf52mjrp53mjwwmfr{m54mj~`ud55mrbxvw56o`hhrw@o`uf@ormf@ormfu`w@orpjwrumj~`ud@orplf}@orwi@orxpw`jpviffs@orxvf@oxmf@ pjhiwbuf`wxuf@ pjhiwi`{l@ rp`hfu@ ru}|@ rvsuf}@rvvjgu`hf@rvwujbi@r{m@r|@s`mofu{ruo@s`pwifu@s`uwujdhf@sf`brbl@sfmjb`p@sjh@sjhfrp@srubxsjpf@srusrjvf@s}h`uh@tx`jm@u`aajw@u`o@u`w@ u`zfp@!urbla`dhfu@"urblhr`w@#urbli}u`|@$urfaxbl@%v`pdgm}@&v`pdmj~`ud@'v`pdzjsfu@(v`w}u@)vbrusjrp@*vbuffbir{m@+vf`br{@,vf`hxmm@-q}NPlants and Animals of the Bible (DCox)P&ADictionary module created by David Cox. This work is anonymous. www.davidcox.com.mx}*'8mO6v]A#e?j;h=nI-Z?Comments8Fallow Deer See Deer &7Falcon@> 6Ewe See Sheep 5Elephantg@= 4Eagle Owl See Owl #3EagleO< 2Dromedary See Camel#1Dragon@; 0Dove: /Donkey@9 .Dog2@8-Deer@7 ,Cuckow See Cuckoo! +CuckooL@6 *Crow See Raven )Cricket See Beetle $ (Crocodile&@4'Crane@3 &Cow See Cattle%Cormoranta@2$ConeySee Rock Badger% #Cockatrice See Snake &"Cock See Fowl  !Cobra See Snake !  Chicken See Fowl " ChamoisW@1 Chameleon See Lizard$Cattle / CaterpillarSee Moth, Worm*CatU@.CankerwormSee Worm#Camel* , Calf See Cattle ! Bustard See Vulture % Bullock See Cattle $ Bull See Cattle ! Buffalo See Cattle $ Buck See Deer  Boar See Swine Black Vulture See Osprey *Bittern@+ Behemoth@ Beetle@  Bee@* BearG@)  Bat.@$ Badger@  BaboonSee Ape AssSee also Donkey %Asp See Snake Ape@Antelope3@# Ant@Adder see Snake ! AddaxSee Antelope $ _Animals of the Bible&HJ @ @ @ @ @ @@  @  @@@@@@ ifjgfu5ifomrblcifp5ifpp`c ifurp5ijpd5ijssrsrw`oxv5irrsrf5irupfdr{m5irupfw5 iruvf5!iruvfmf`bi5"irxpd5#i}fp`5$i}vvrsc!jaf|5%jmf|c#k`bl`m5&k`bld`{5'kfuar`5(kxpjsfuc$l`w}djd5)ljd5*ljpf5+ljwf5,m`oa5-m`s{jph5.m`xufmc%mffbi5/mfflc&mfpwjmc'mfrs`ud50mfzj`wi`p51mjbf52mjhp`mrfc(mjm}c)mjrp53mjwwmfr{m54mj~`ud55mrbxvw56mrwxvc*o`hhrw@o`mmr{c+o`pdu`lfc,o`uf@o`ukru`oc-ofmrpc.ojmmfwc/ojpwc0ormf@ormfu`w@orpjwrumj~`ud@orplf}@orwi@orxpw`jpviffs@orxvf@oxmafuu}c1oxmf@ oxvw`udc2o}uuic3o}uwmfc4p`udc5pfwwmfc6pjhiwbuf`wxuf@ pjhiwi`{l@ r`lc7rjmwuffc8rmjzfc9rp`hfu@ rpjrpc:rp}bi`c;ru}|@ rvsuf}@rvvjgu`hf@rvwujbi@r{m@r|@s`mocFly@B=Flea@A <Fisher Owl See Cormorant(;FishW@? :Ferret See Lizard # 9Fawn See Deer  LVALCuckoo. Cuckoos are insect-eating migratory birds that appear in Israel during the summer. Scholars feel that the Hebrew word was incorrectly rendered cuckow in the KJV. There is no obvious reason why the cuckoo would be considered an unclean bird ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:15}). The NKJV translates "seagull."\par\par@LVALLDeer. From early times, deer were game animals. Isaac's son Esau was "a skillful hunter" ({\cf11\ul Gen_25:27}). And it was Isaac's craving for deer meat that enabled Jacob to steal his dying father's blessing (Gen. 27). Deer were still plentiful in Palestine in Solomon's day and were served at his table ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_4:23}). Jews could eat deer because this animal "chews the cud" and "divides the hoof." (A deer track perfectly illustrates a "divided hoof.")\par\par The Bible contains many references to deer. The animal was admired for its agility and grace, its ability to sense danger quickly, and its swiftness. Biblical writers also noted the doe's gentle care of her young. A young deer is called a fawn ({\cf11\ul Son_4:5}; {\cf11\ul Son_7:3}). The psalmist thought of the long journey for water that a deer faces in dry seasons and exclaimed: "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God" ({\cf11\ul Psa_42:1}). Isaiah wrote of the feelings of joy and elation when he wrote, "the lame shall leap like a deer" ({\cf11\ul Psa_35:6}).\par\par Scholars are not sure of the precise species or kind of deer Esau hunted or Solomon served. The terms stag or buck (male), hart (male), and hind (female) are used of the red deer common in Europe, which has never lived in Palestine. Likely candidates are the fallow deer ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}), (KJV), which was common in Mesopotamia, and the roe deer, often called by its male name, roe buck ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}), (RSV). Bible translators often interchanged terms for various kinds of deer, and for gazelle as well; so readers must settle for informed guesses about the exact species intended. Also see Antelope, Gazelle.\par\par LVALDog. In ancient Israel, the dog was not "man's best friend." In fact, calling someone a dog was one of the most offensive ways of insulting that person. The Bible mentions dogs frequently; most of the references are derogatory. Even in New Testament times, Jews called Gentiles "dogs" ({\cf11\ul Mat_15:26}). The term "dog" also referred to a male prostitute ({\cf11\ul Deu_23:18}). Unbelievers who were shut out of the New Jerusalem were also termed "dogs" ({\cf11\ul Rev_22:15})-- probably a reference to their sexual immorality. Moslems later applied the insult to Christians.\par\par The dog may have been the first animal in the ancient world to be tamed. Ancient Egyptians raced greyhounds, mentioned by Solomon in his Proverbs ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:31}), (NKJV), and the Greeks raised mastiffs. But dogs in Palestine were more wild than tame. They often banded together in packs and lived off the refuse and food supplies of a village. Some dogs were useful as watchdogs or guardians of sheep, but even they were not altogether reliable ({\cf11\ul Isa_56:10}).\par\par LVAL!Donkey. One of the first animals tamed by man, the donkey was a necessity in Bible times. It is mentioned frequently in the Bible. Wild donkeys (referred to as the onager in ({\cf11\ul Job_39:5}), NKJV) also roamed the land. "Like a wild donkey" ({\cf11\ul Hos_8:9}) described a headstrong, untamed nature. But the domesticated donkey was an obedient servant.\par\par Donkeys stand about 1. 3 meters (4 feet) high. They are usually gray, reddish-brown, or white. The long-suffering donkey often won the affection of the household and was decorated with beads and bright ribbons. But his true role was to serve as a work animal. He trampled seed, turned the millstone to grind grain, and pulled the plow.\par\par Donkey caravans were the freight trains and transport trucks of ancient times. These animals could carry great weight in spite of their small size. Since they required only a fraction as much fodder as a horse, they were more economical to own. The donkey was also a safe and comfortable animal to ride. They were ridden by rich and poor alike. When Jesus entered Jerusalem, he signaled his peaceful intentions by riding a young donkey rather than a prancing war-horse.\par\par The offspring of a male donkey (jack) and female horse (mare) was a mule. The mule had the surefootedness and endurance of the donkey, coupled with the greater size and strength of the horse.\par\par Crossbreeding like this was outlawed among the Jewish people ({\cf11\ul Lev_19:19}), but from David's time mules were imported and increasingly used by the Israelites ({\cf11\ul 2Sa_18:9}; {\cf11\ul 1Ki_1:33}; {\cf11\ul 1Ki_18:5}). ({\cf11\ul Ezr_2:66}) records that the Israelites brought 245 mules with them when they returned from captivity in Babylon.\par\par LVAL Dove. Doves and pigeons belong to the same family. They are often mentioned in the Bible as if they are the same animal. The rock dove found in Palestine is the wild ancestor of our common street pigeon. Turtledoves are migrants. They spend the months of April to October in the Holy Land, filling the air with soft cooing when they arrive each Spring ({\cf11\ul Son_2:11-12}). \par\par Doves come in several colors, from pure white to the chestnut-colored palm turtledove. Even the plain gray pigeon has a silver sheen. Solomon waxed poetic over doves' eyes. David longed for "wings like a dove" ({\cf11\ul Psa_55:6}), so he could fly away from his enemies.\par\par Pigeons were probably the first domesticated bird. When people realized doves could travel long distances and always find their way home, they used them to carry messages. Homing pigeons have keen eyes with which they spot landmarks to help them stay on the right route.\par\par Hebrews ate pigeons and, from Abraham's time, used them in sacrifice. Even a poor man could provide a pigeon or two for worship, as Joseph and Mary did at Jesus' circumcision ({\cf11\ul Luk_2:21-24}; {\cf11\ul Lev_12:8}).\par\par Doves appear to express affection, stroking each other, and "billing and cooing." They mate for life, sharing nesting and parenting duties. They are gentle birds that never resist attack or retaliate against their enemies. Even when her young are attacked, a dove will give only a pitiful call of distress.\par\par Because of its innocence and gentle nature, the dove is a common religious symbol. The Holy Spirit took the form of a dove at Jesus' baptism ({\cf11\ul Mat_3:16}; {\cf11\ul Mar_1:10}; {\cf11\ul Luk_3:22}). The dove also symbolizes peace, love, forgiveness, and the church.\par\par LVALDragon. Dragons are imaginary beasts with a long history in the folklore of many cultures. Usually the dragon is a crafty creature that represents evil. The word dragon, as used in some translations of the Bible, is often confusing. Occasionally this word is used when the intended meaning was probably jackal ({\cf11\ul Lam_4:3}), (RSV), sea serpent or serpent ({\cf11\ul Psa_91:13}), (RSV), or even crocodile ({\cf11\ul Eze_29:3-4}).\par\par This huge, fire-breathing monster with terrifying wings and claws is a symbol of Satan ({\cf11\ul Rev_12:3-17}; {\cf11\ul Rev_16:13}; {\cf11\ul Rev_20:2}). In the church of early Christian history, dragons represented sin. Christian art often depicts a dragon at the feet of Jesus-- to show His triumph over sin.\par\par LVALEagle. Eagles are included among the unclean birds mentioned in the Bible ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:13}), (NKJV), but they were admired as majestic birds. The golden eagle, which is really dark brown with sprinkles of gold, has a 26-meter (8-feet) wingspread. It nests in high places that are inaccessible ({\cf11\ul Jer_49:16}). There, in a nest which the eagle makes larger each year, the eagle hatches two eggs. Usually only one eaglet survives to adulthood.\par\par An eagle has keen eyesight. He can spot his prey while soaring hundreds of feet in the air. Like a lightning bolt, he drops to seize it, killing it quickly with his powerful claws. Then he swoops back to his nest to rip the meat apart and share it with his young.\par\par A mother eagle carries her eaglet on her back until it masters the art of flying. Moses used this familiar picture from nature to describe God's care for His people. God stirred up Jacob (the nation of Israel), and carried His people on His wings ({\cf11\ul Deu_32:11-12}) as He delivered them from slavery in Egypt. \par\par Solomon marveled at "the way of an eagle in the air" ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:19}). An eagle can stay aloft for hours, rarely moving his wings and riding wind currents. But many passages in the Bible also speak of the swiftness of the eagle's flight (Deu_28:49). \par\par The belief that an eagle renews its strength and youthful appearance after shedding its feathers gave rise to ({\cf11\ul Psa_103:5}) and ({\cf11\ul Isa_40:31}). Eagles do have a long life-span, living 20 to 30 years in the wild, and longer in captivity. \par\par In the Old Testament, prophets spoke of the eagle as a symbol of God's judgment ({\cf11\ul Jer_48:40}; {\cf11\ul Eze_17:3}; {\cf11\ul Eze_17:7}). In ({\cf11\ul Rev_12:14}), "two wings of a great eagle" portray God's intervention to deliver His people from persecution.\par\par LVALElephant. No elephants lived in Palestine. But they were native to the neighboring continents of Africa and Asia. Wealthy Jews sometimes imported the ivory which came from their great tusks. King Solomon "made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold" ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_10:18}). And King Ahab built an "ivory house" ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_22:39}).\par\parPLVAL\Falcon. In some translations of the Bible the falcon appears in the lists of unclean birds ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:14}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:13}), (NKJV). As a bird of prey, it is often grouped with hawks. But a falcon is not a true hawk. The sport of hunting with trained falcons originated in ancient Persia. Great numbers of falcons are still seen in Palestine, as they surely were in Bible times ({\cf11\ul Job_28:7}).\par\parLVALFish. According to one authority, 45 species of fish are found in the inland waters of Palestine. Many more live in the Mediterranean Sea. But the Bible gives no details on any specific species of fish.\par\par Fish, just like other animals, were divided into clean and unclean categories. Fish with fins and scales were considered clean, and they made a popular Sabbath meal. Unclean fish included catfish, eels, and probably sharks and lampreys, as well as shellfish. The Hebrews also considered whales and porpoises as fish, since they lived in the sea.\par\par Fishing was a major industry among the Jewish people. Jerusalem had a Fish Gate, and presumably a fish market. Fish were caught with nets ({\cf11\ul Hab_1:15}), hooks ({\cf11\ul Isa_19:8}; {\cf11\ul Mat_17:27}), and harpoons and spears ({\cf11\ul Job_41:7}). The catch was preserved by salting and drying or storing in salt water.\par\par The Bible contains many references to fish and fishing. ({\cf11\ul Hab_1:14-17}) compares captive Israel to helpless fish gathered into a dragnet by her enemies. Jesus, on the other hand, called his disciples to become "fishers of men" ({\cf11\ul Mat_4:19}; {\cf11\ul Mar_1:17}). Since the time of the early church, the fish has been a symbol of Christianity. The Greek word for fish-- ichthus-- is an acrostic for "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior."\par\par 6o?# nO'a9qR( lK#vK#kJ"IDTopic DefiniSponge@ Spider@ Sparrow@ Sow See Swine Sheep Serpent See Snake # Sea MonsterN@Sea Mew See Sea Gull$ Sea Gull@ Sea Cow See Badger $ Screech Owl See Owl %Scorpion@ Satyr See Goat; Owl# Sand Viper See Snake &Sand Lizard See Lizard (Sand FlySee Fly Roe Buck See Deer % Rock HyraxSee Rock Badger ,Rock Goat See Sheep#Rock Badger@Ravenw@ Rat See MouseRam See SheepRabbit See Hare ! Quail@ Pygarg@ Porpoise See Badger % Porcupine@PigeonSee Dove Pig See Swine PelicanE@ Peacock@ Partridge@Panther See Lion " PalmerwormSee Worm#Ox See Cattle OwlOstrich@ Ossifrage See Vulture%~OspreyT@ }Oryx See Antelope! |Onager See Donkey # {Nighthawkg@zNight CreatureSee Owl&yMule See Monkey ! xMouse}@ wMountain Sheep See Sheep *vMoth@ uMonkey@ tMonitor Lizard See Lizard +sMole Rat See Weasel % rMole@ qMare See Horse pMaggotSee Lice; Worm% LVAL Flea. Fleas flourished in the sand and dust of the Holy Land. Classified as parasites, these tiny insects attach themselves to a body and suck blood from their host. Fleas have no wings, but they do have strong legs and can jump several inches at one leap. The flea that lives on man is tiny, but it can be very irritating. David described himself as a mere flea being pursued by a king ({\cf11\ul 1Sa_24:14}; {\cf11\ul 1Sa_26:20}). He may have seemed insignificant, but he irritated King Saul.\par\par9LVALEFly. The "flies" of the Bible included the common housefly, as well as other two-winged insects. Many of these were biting insects. This explains the "devouring" flies of ({\cf11\ul Psa_78:45}). The flies visited as a plague upon the Egyptians probably included the housefly and the stinging sand fly, as well as gnats and mosquitoes.\par\par The prophet Isaiah's reference to the "fly that is in the farthest part of the rivers of Egypt" ({\cf11\ul Isa_7:18}) may have been a symbol of swarms of Egyptian soldiers. Or, he could have had in mind the dreaded tsetse fly of Africa, which spreads sleeping sickness. Still another possibility is the olive fly, which could ruin a crop of ripe olives.\par\par Solomon's "fly in the ointment" ({\cf11\ul Ecc_10:1}) has become a proverb. So also has Jesus' "straining out a gnat"-- which referred to the custom of straining wine to take out the impurities before it was served ({\cf11\ul Mat_23:24}).\par\par LVALFowl. Most people assume that hens and roosters (cocks) were common in Palestine, but they are rarely mentioned in the Bible. Domestic chickens probably descended from the red jungle fowl of Asia. Cocks were bred for the ancient sport of cock-fighting before hens were raised for meat and eggs.\par\par The crowing of cocks served the ancient world as an alarm clock. Cocks crowed about midnight and again about 3 A. M. Soldiers often rotated their guard duty at this regular signal. Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him three times before the cock crowed ({\cf11\ul Mat_26:34}; {\cf11\ul Mar_14:30}; {\cf11\ul Luk_22:34}; {\cf11\ul Joh_13:38}).\par\par Wild or tame, chickens gather in flocks. Jesus must have been familiar with this flocking instinct. He spoke of a mother hen that tucks a whole brood of chicks under her wings for safety ({\cf11\ul Mat_23:37}; {\cf11\ul Luk_13:34}).\par\par The "fatted fowl" provided for King Solomon ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_4:23}) may have been geese. Ancient carvings from Megiddo show peasant women carrying fat geese. Geese also appear in Egyptian tomb paintings.\par\par LVAL Fox. Foxes were common predators in Bible times. Since they fed on small rodents like rats and mice, they helped to protect the grain crops. But their fondness for grapes caused farmers much grief. Sometimes they even tunneled under protective walls to feast on grapevines ({\cf11\ul Son_2:15}). Foxes also settle in holes and burrows, often those abandoned by other animals. Jesus pointed out that foxes have holes, but the Son of Man had nowhere to lay His head ({\cf11\ul Mat_8:20}).\par\par Foxes have a keen sense of sight, smell, and hearing. They are also clever enough to lie in wait for prey. They may even play dead to attract a bird within striking range. When hunted, they are cunning and devious, misleading their pursuers. Jesus compared Herod, the Roman tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, to a fox, because of his crafty, devious nature ({\cf11\ul Luk_13:32}).\par\par "The land of Shual" ({\cf11\ul 1Sa_13:17}) may have been fox country, for shual means "fox" or "jackal." Also see Jackal.\par\par LVALFrog. Frogs are mentioned several times in the Bible ({\cf11\ul Exo_8:2-13}; {\cf11\ul Psa_105:30}; {\cf11\ul Rev_16:13}). All but the passage in Revelation refer to the plague of frogs in Egypt. The ancient Egyptians connected frogs with fertility and the life cycle, so they considered frogs sacred. What dismay it must have caused when the frogs multiplied uncontrollably and then died and the Egyptians had to gather these sacred animals into stinking heaps. ({\cf11\ul Rev_16:13}) speaks of frogs as the symbol of unclean spirits.\par\parrLVAL~Goat. In Bible times, Hebrew shepherds treasured the goat because it was such a useful animal. They wove its hair into a type of rough cloth. They drank the goat's milk which is sweet and more nutritious than cow's milk-- ideal for making cheese. They even used goatskin bottles to transport water and wine. When the hide of these containers wore thin, they leaked and had to be patched ({\cf11\ul Jos_9:4}; {\cf11\ul Mat_9:17}).\par\par Goats often grazed with sheep in mixed flocks. Unlike their gentle and helpless cousins, goats were independent, willful, and curious. Bible writers sometimes used goats to symbolize irresponsible leadership ({\cf11\ul Jer_50:8}; {\cf11\ul Zec_10:3}). In Jesus' parable of the Great Judgment ({\cf11\ul Mat_25:32-33}), the goats represented the unrighteous who could not enter His kingdom.\par\par Goats were often sacrificed in the worship system of ancient Israel. In an early ritual, the Hebrews used two goats. They sacrificed one, sprinkling its blood upon the back of the other. This scapegoat was then sent into the wilderness, symbolically bearing the sins of the people ({\cf11\ul Lev_16:10}).\par\par Young goats are referred to as kids in the Bible ({\cf11\ul Gen_27:9}; {\cf11\ul Gen_27:16}; {\cf11\ul Num_7:87}). The wild goat of Palestine is known as the ibex ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}), (RSV, NIV; mountain goat, NKJV; pygarg, KJV; satyr, KJV, RSV).\par\par LVAL IGrasshopper. Numerous references to grasshoppers and locusts in the Bible show what an impact these insects had in the hot, dry lands of the ancient world. Some of these references are literal ({\cf11\ul Exo_10:4-19}) while others are symbolic ({\cf11\ul Num_13:33}).\par\par The terms grasshopper and locust are often used interchangeably. A locust is one kind of grasshopper. Another term used rarely for these insects is katydid ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:22}), (NIV). It has a brown-colored body two to three inches long. Airborne, with two sets of wings, the locust was dreaded because of its destructive power as a foliage-eating insect in the ancient world.\par\par The eighth plague that God sent upon the Egyptians was an invasion of locusts. Millions of these insects may be included in one of these swarms, which usually occur in the spring. Locusts in such numbers speedily eat every plant in sight, totally destroying the crops. A locust plague is practically unstoppable. Water does not work; for when enough locusts drown, the survivors use their bodies as a bridge. They have also been known to smother fires that had been set to destroy them. Even modern farmers wrestle with this problem, often resorting to poisoning the adults and harrowing fields in the fall to destroy the eggs before they can hatch in the spring.\par\par (Chapter 9 of the Book of Revelation) presents a nightmarish prospect: locusts with special powers will be unleashed upon mankind for five months.\par\par Locusts do not always appear in swarms. Hot weather normally brings a few solitary grasshoppers and locusts to the Holy Land. But scientists have learned that under certain conditions of climate and food scarcity, chemical changes take place in the female locust. These cause more eggs to hatch, sending millions of locusts into the air at the same time in search of food. \par\par Many people, including the Jews, eat locusts ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:22}). These insects may be boiled, fried, or dried. Locusts were part of the wilderness die @@  @@@ @@     @    @ @ @@ ,`pjo`mvrgwifajamf,sm`pwvrgwifajamfP`b`bj`P`dd`|`ddfu`mhxoP`morpdP`moxhP`mrfvP`o`u`pwiP`pjvfP`pw`pwfmrsf`sf`ssmfP `sujbrwP!`vs`vsfpP"`vsirdfmP#`vva`arrpa`dhfu a`moP$a`mv`oP%a`umf}P&a`w a`}wuffP'af`pvP(af`u aff affwmf afiforwiajwwfu{ffdP)ajwwfupam`blbxojpP*am`blzxmwxufar`uar|wuffP+au`oamfP,aurroP-axblaxdP.axgg`mraxmmaxmmrblaxmuxviP/axvw`udb`m`oxvP0b`mgb`ofmb`ofmwirupP1b`osijufP2b`pfP3b`plfu{ruob`sfuafuu}P4b`u`{`}P5b`vvr`cb`wb`wfusjmm`ub`wwmfbfd`ucbi`ofmfrpbi`orjvbifvwpxwcbijblfpbjpp`orpcbjwurpcbrau` brbl!brbl`wujbf"brpf}#bruj`pdfucbruoru`pw$brupcbr{%bu`pf&bujblfw(burbrdjmf'burbxvcbur{)bxblrr*bxblr{+bxbxoafucbxojpc b}sufvvc d`upfmc d`wfs`moc dffu,djmmc drh-drplf}.drzf/drzfdurssjphvcdu`hrp0durofd`u}1f`hmf2f`hmfr{m3farp}cfmfsi`pw4fmocf{f5g`mbrp6g`mmr{dffu7g`{p5gfuufw5gjhcgjucgjvi5gjvifur{m5gjwbifvcgm`hcgm`|cgmf`5gm}5gr{m5gr|5gu`pljpbfpvfcgurh5h`ma`pxoch`mmch`umjbch`~fmmf5 hfblr5 hjfuf`hmf5 hmfdf5 hp`w5 hr`w5hrrvf5hrsifu{rrdchrxudchu`sfvchu`vvirssfu5huf`wmj~`ud5huf`wr{m5huf}irxpd5hujggrp5huxa5i`uf5i`{l5i`~fmcif`wicifdhfirh5u`zfp@!urbla`dhfu@"urblhr`w@#urbli}u`|@$urfaxbl@%v`pdgm}@&v`pdmj~`ud@'v`pdzjsfu@(v`w}u@)vbrusjrp@*vbuffbir{m@+vf`br{@,vf`hxmm@-LVALt of John the Baptist ({\cf11\ul Mat_3:4}).\par\par m @@ @@ @@@ @@@@vf`of{@.vf`orpvwfu@/vfusfpw@0viffs@1vijww`iwuff|vijwwjo{rrd|vp`lf|"vr{@2vs`uur{@3vsfmw|vsjdfu@4vsjlfp`ud|vsrphf@5vw`bwf|vw`hPvwrulPvwu`{|v{`mmr{Pv{`pPv{jgwPv{jpfPv}b`ojpf|v}b`oruf|w`o`ujvl|w`ufv|w`{p}r{mPwfjm|wfufajpwi|wijvwmfvwirupv|wiuxviPwi}of|wruwrjvfPwxuwmfP wxuwmfdrzfP xpjbrupP zjpf|zjsfuP zxmwxufP {`vsP{`wfuofmrp|{f`vfmP{i`mfP{if`w|{jmdar`uP{jmddrplf}P{jmdhr`wP{jmdr|P{jmmr{| {rmgP{ruoP{ruo{rrd|!{u}pfblPLVALHare. Hares were plentiful in Palestine, but they are mentioned in the Bible only as forbidden food ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:6}); (rabbit, NIV, NASB). They look like large rabbits with longer ears and legs. The common jackrabbit is actually a hare. Unlike rabbits, hares are born furry and able to see. Hares were mistakenly thought to chew the cud, but they were considered unclean because they did not have divided hoofs ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:6}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:7}). Perhaps they were forbidden because they are rodents, but the Hebrews' Arab neighbors did not hesitate to hunt them for food.\par\parLVALHawk. Hawks are the fierce little brothers in the eagle and vulture family. Adult hawks vary from one to two feet in length. They are known for their exceptional eyesight, which is about eight times as keen as man's. Solomon remarked, "Surely, in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird" ({\cf11\ul Pro_1:17}).\par\par The farsighted hawk not only detects nets from a distance, but he can also see mice, insects, and birds. He strikes with devastating swiftness, his powerful claws crushing his prey, which he eats whole.\par\par Some 18 species of hawk exist in Palestine, among them the small sparrow hawk. This hawk, which Egyptians considered sacred, nests in a hollow tree, amid old ruins, or upon a rock. As winter approaches, it migrates to a warmer climate. \par\par Harrier hawks are found in the valleys and low-lying plains. They glide nearer the ground and "harry" other birds by forcing them to land.\par\par Kites (gledes) are a larger breed of hawk, with long narrow wings ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:13}). Red kites, black kites, and Egyptian kites are found in Palestine. Kites in Syria hide their nests by draping them with cloth scraps or animal skins. Just as they abstained from eating other birds of prey, Israelites did not eat hawks ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16; Deu_14:15}).\par\par LVALHeron. The Bible mentions herons only in the lists of unclean birds ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:19}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:18}). Several species of herons and egrets made their home in Palestine. Egyptian carvings picture herons and their nests among the reeds of marshes and lakes.\par\par A tall, graceful bird, the heron flies with its neck curled and its long legs stretched out behind. The heron eats fish, frogs, and small reptiles, which it spears swiftly with a long, sharp beak.\par\par LVALHoopoe. The hoopoe is a beautiful bird with a disgusting habit: it probes foul places for insects with its sharp, slender beak. Its wing feathers bear a zebra stripe, and its head sports a lovely crown of feathers. When frightened, the hoopoe may flutter his crest or drop to the ground and play dead. The offensive odor picked up from its feeding grounds is enough to drive away most of its enemies.\par\par Called lapwing in the KJV, the hoopoe is on the list of unclean birds ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:19}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:18}). It is frequently seen throughout the Holy Land today.\par\par YLVALeHorse. Horses are mentioned often in the Bible. But they were of little importance to the average Hebrew, who found it more practical to keep a donkey to ride or an ox to pull the plow. Horses were traded for food when money failed during a famine in Egypt ({\cf11\ul Gen_47:17}). Some kings used swift horses rather than camels to carry messages ({\cf11\ul Est_8:10}; {\cf11\ul Est_8:14}). But for the most part, Hebrews thought of horses in terms of war.\par\par Pharaoh's horses and chariots pursued when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt ({\cf11\ul Exo_14:9}). Their Canaanite enemies met them with many horses and chariots, but they still fell before the Israelites ({\cf11\ul Jos_11:4-9}). Repeatedly God warned the Hebrews not to place their faith in the strength and speed of horses ({\cf11\ul Psa_20:7}) or to "multiply" horses ({\cf11\ul Deu_17:16}).\par\par In spite of these warnings, David and Solomon did multiply horses, even importing them from other countries. Solomon had a sizeable cavalry as well as horses to draw war chariots.\par\par The prophet Jeremiah used the word stallion in speaking of horses (Jer_8:16; Jer_47:3; Jer_50:11), (RSV). He warned the nation of Judah that it would fall to a conquering army that would be riding prancing stallions. He also used the symbol of a "well-fed, lusty stallion" (Jer_5:8), (NKJV) to describe the idolatry and unfaithfulness of God's people.\par\par The New Testament tells of the "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse," who ride out to ravage the earth in the end times (Rev_6:1-8). But even more dramatic than this is the entrance of a white horse bearing the "King of kings and Lord of lords" (Rev_19:11-16).\par\par 6qV.zT7uNx]A]5o:c5 IDTopic DefinitionCaraway See Cumin # Caperberry@#CaneSee Calamus; Reed Rush - Camphire See Henna $ Camel-Thorn See Cypress )Calamus@b BulrushSee Reed Rush ' Bud See Gourd Broom@a BrambleSee Thistle Thorns , Box Tree]@` Black CuminSee Cumin; Fitches 0Bitter WeedSee Wormwood *Beans@_ Bay Tree@^ Barley)@] Balsam@\ Balm See Balsam ! Asphodel See Rose # AspenSee Mulberry $ Apricot See Apple # Apple@ Anise@Z Amaranth@@Y Aloes@X Almug See Algum Almondt@ AlgumZ@[ AcaciaS@ _Plants of the Bible %%Wryneck See Swallow % Wormz@ Wolf-@ Wild OxSee Cattle; Unicorn - Wild GoatSee Goat"Wild Donkey See Donkey (Wild Boar See Swine#WhaleSee Crocodile; Sea Monster 2 Weasel@ Wasp-@ Vulture?@ Viper See Snake ! Unicorny@ Turtledove See Dove %Turtle1@ Tortoise See Turtle % Thrush See Swift " Tawny Owl See Owl #Swine@ SwiftK@ Swan[@ Swallow@ Stork@ StagSee Deer +LVAL7Hyena. Hyenas were plentiful in Bible times. "Doleful creatures" (KJV) and "beasts of the field" ({\cf11\ul Isa_13:21}; {\cf11\ul Jer_12:9}) may refer to hyenas. The place name Zeboim ({\cf11\ul 1Sa_13:18}; {\cf11\ul Neh_11:34}) means "hyena." A member of the dog family, hyenas have square snouts and powerful jaws. They run down prey and may even attack human beings. The Israelites hated hyenas and considered them unclean because they are scavengers. Sometimes they would even dig up and devour dead bodies. Hyenas hunt at night. Their eerie howls sound like demented laughter. A reference by the prophet Isaiah to the hyena is also translated as jackal ({\cf11\ul Isa_13:22}), (RSV). Also see Jackal.\par\parLVALJackal. The prophet Isaiah spoke of jackals-- wild dogs that make their dens in desolate places ({\cf11\ul Isa_34:13}). As scavengers, jackals also fed on garbage in towns and villages in Bible times.\par\par Jackals have an unpleasant smell, and they make a yapping and howling noise at night. They are also agricultural pests. Palestinian farmers put up shelters for watchmen, who guarded their cucumber fields against jackals. Some farmers heaped up whitewashed stones to frighten the jackals, just as scarecrows are used in other places.\par\par Bible references to jackals are confusing, since jackal, fox, dragon, and wolf may be used interchangeably, depending on the translation. The "foxes" to whose tails Samson tied torches were probably jackals which, unlike foxes, travel in packs ({\cf11\ul Jdg_15:4}). Also see Fox.\par\par LVAL+Leech. A leech may be described as a type of worm with suckers at each end of its body. One end also contains a mouth. Some species of this animal even have tiny teeth. Parasitic leeches attach themselves to a person or an animal, from which it sucks blood for nourishment. A leech of this type secretes chemicals which keep the blood flowing freely.\par\par In primitive times, physicians used leeches to "bleed" a patient and purge his body of what was thought to be contaminated blood. But an untended leech could cause pain and damage. In his Proverbs, Solomon may have had the blood-sucking nature of this animal in mind when he spoke of the leech's "two daughters" who cry "Give! Give!" ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:15}).\par\pareLVALqLeopard. The huge cats known as leopards were familiar in Palestine, and the Hebrews had good reason to fear them. Smaller and lighter than lions, leopards are better hunters. They are swift, wary, and intelligent; and they can climb trees as easily as a domestic cat. A leopard is also strong enough to drag his prey to a tree branch, where he can devour it out of reach of lions or hyenas. Although leopards do not usually attack human beings, Jeremiah portrayed them symbolically as an instrument of God's judgment: "A leopard will watch over their cities. Everyone who goes out from there shall be torn in pieces" ({\cf11\ul Jer_5:6}).\par\par The books of Daniel and Revelation use the leopard as a symbol of swiftness in cruelty ({\cf11\ul Dan_7:6}; {\cf11\ul Rev_13:2}). Isaiah suggested that a day of peace would come when the savage leopard would not harm a young goat ({\cf11\ul Isa_11:6}).\par\par LVALLice. Lice thrive in dry, dusty climates where sanitation is poor. These tiny insects are parasites with flat, colorless bodies. They cling to animals, humans, or plants, sucking blood or sap. The Egyptian nobles and priests shaved their heads and beards so lice could find no hiding place on their bodies. An infestation of lice, the third plague of the Exodus, must have been particularly bothersome to them ({\cf11\ul Exo_8:16-18}), (gnats, RSV, NIV, NASB; maggots, NEB).\par\parLVAL Lion. The lion was the most awesome and dangerous wild beast in Palestine. His tawny hide blended into the golden fields and sandy wastes. Lions hid in forests and sometimes pounced from the thickets near the Jordan River ({\cf11\ul Jer_49:19}).\par\par The Bible contains many references to lions. Daniel miraculously survived a night in a lions' den (Daniel 6). Samson and David killed lions singlehandedly ({\cf11\ul Jdg_14:5-6}; {\cf11\ul 1Sa_17:34-37}). Kings hunted lions for sport. According to ({\cf11\ul Eze_19:1-9}), lions were also captured with pits and nets.\par\par The lion's majestic appearance and fearsome roar prompted many comparisons. The prophet Joel declared, "The Lord also will roar from Zion" ({\cf11\ul Joe_3:16}). The apostle Peter wrote: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion." The prophet Hosea foretold that God would be like a protective lion for the nation of Israel ({\cf11\ul Hos_5:14}); (panther, NEB).\par\par Largest and grandest of cats, the lion is filled with power. A swat of his paw can kill. His massive body forces him to rely on strength instead of speed in his hunting. \par\par A lion looks and sounds so imposing that he symbolizes royalty and courage. The highest compliment which biblical writers could give was to indicate that a person had the face or heart of a lion. Ari, the most common term for lion, means "the strong one." In ({\cf11\ul Isa_29:1}) Jerusalem is called "Ariel," implying that the capital of the Jewish nation is "the strong [lion-like] city of God." In some translations of the Bible, a young lion is called a cub ({\cf11\ul Gen_49:9}), (NIV), while other translations use the word whelp ({\cf11\ul Gen_49:9}).\par\par The Israelite tribes of Judah, Dan, and Gad-- and also the nation of Babylon-- adopted the lion as their symbol. Jesus is called "the lion of Judah" (Rev_5:5). Isaiah the prophet foretold that at the end of time, the Prince of Peace would tame even the fierce heart of the lion ({\cf LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicAlmond\par\par \par\par Almond. A large tree resembling the peach tree in both size and fruit. The almond was chiefly valued for the nuts it produced, which were used for making oil used in the home and as medicine. The Hebrew word for almond means "awakening," an allusion to the almond blossom, which is first to bloom in the spring. The almond's pinkish-white blossoms always appear before its leaves.\par\par The almond played an important role in the history of the Hebrews. Jacob included almond nuts in his gifts to Joseph in Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}). The decorations on the lampstands were modeled after the almond blossom ({\cf11 \ul Exo_25:33}), and Aaron's rod was an almond twig ({\cf11 \ul Num_17:8}). The almond also symbolized the dependability of God ({\cf11 \ul Jer_1:11-12}). Many scholars think the hazel of ({\cf11 \ul Gen_30:37}) Kjv is the almond tree.\par\par \par\par "LVAL.N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicAloes. Two plants, one a tree and the other e flower\par\par 1. The aloes mentioned in ({\cf11 \ul Psa_45:8}; {\cf11 \ul Pro_7:17}), and ({\cf11 \ul Son_4:14}) came from a large tree known as "eaglewood," a plant native to India. The wood of the aloe tree is fragrant and highly valued for perfume and incense. Many authorities believe the lign aloe to be the same tree ({\cf11 \ul Num_24:6}), Kjv.\par\par 2. The aloes brought by Nicodemus to wrap the body of Jesus ({\cf11 \ul Joh_19:39}) were probably the true aloes of the lily family, a beautiful plant with thick, fleshy leaves and red flowers. The aloin derived from the pulp of the aloe leaf was an expensive product used in embalming.\par\par \par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicAmaranth. A large family of plants that includes weeds and garden plants. Goodspeed translates the amaranth, also called the "rolling thing," of ({\cf11 \ul Isa_7:13}) as the tumbleweed. It is also called the "resurrection plant" and the "rose of Jericho." The Greek word for amaranth means "unfading." This describes the bloom's ability to retain its color when dried. This meaning is used symbolically in ({\cf11 \ul 1Pe_1:4}) and (5:4), where the inheritance of the faithful is described as unfading. Thus, the amaranth became a symbol of immortality.\par\par \par\par 4LVAL@N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicAnise. An annual herb which bears yellow flowers and fragrant seeds. The anise mentioned in the Bible is generally thought to be dill. Anise (dill) was used as medicine and for cooking. It grows in Palestine today both cultivated and wild.\par\par Jesus used the anise as an illustration when He scolded the Pharisees for keeping part of the law in detail while ignoring the rest ({\cf11 \ul Mat_23:23}); (also {\cf11 \ul Deu_14:22}).\par\par LVALAlgum, Almug. A large leguminous tree native to India and Ceylon. While its identity is uncertain, many consider it to be the red sandlewood. Its blossoms were pea-like, and its wood was close grained, dark outside, and red within. It was highly scented, making it resistant to insects. Most authorities believe that algum and almug are two forms of the same wood.\par\par Solomon ordered the algum wood from Ophir and Lebanon ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_10:11-12}; {\cf11 \ul 2Ch_9:10-11}). The wood was well suited for making musical instruments, cabinet work, and pillars for the Temple.\par\par \par\par :LVALFN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBalsam. A thorny tree growing 3 to 5 meters (10-15 feet) tall with clusters of green flowers, also known as the Jericho balsam. Some think the lentisk or mastic tree, a shrubby evergreen growing one to three meters (3-10 feet) tall, is meant.\par\par Balsam was highly valued during Bible times ({\cf11 \ul Gen_37:25}; {\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_8:22}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_46:11}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_51:8}; {\cf11 \ul Eze_27:17}). It produced a fragrant, resinous gum called balm. This was an article of export ({\cf11 \ul Gen_37:25}) and was given as a gift by Jacob ({\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}). Balm was used as a symbol in ({\cf11 \ul Jer_8:22}) to refer to spiritual healing.\par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBarley. A grain known since early times. It was well adapted to varied climates, ripening quickly and resistant to heat; it usually was harvested before wheat. Because barley was considered a food for slaves and the very poor, however, it was held in low esteem as a grain.\par\par In the Bible barley was first associated with Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Exo_9:31}). It was used as an offering of jealousy ({\cf11 \ul Num_5:15}), for fodder ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_4:28}), and for food ({\cf11 \ul Jdg_7:13}; {\cf11 \ul Joh_6:5}; {\cf11 \ul Joh_6:13}).\par\par 5LVALAN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBay Tree. The laurel, a tree native to Canaan. The laurel grew to heights of 12 to 18 meters (40-60 feet) and produced small greenish-white flowers and black berries. Parts of the tree were used in medicine, while its leaves were used as seasoning. The Hebrew word means "a tree in its native soil"; this was a fitting way for David to describe the natural prosperity of the wicked ({\cf11 \ul Psa_37:35}), (KJV; native green tree, NKJV).\par\parTLVAL`N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBeans. A hardy plant about one meter (three feet) tall with pea-shaped fragrant blooms, large pods and black or brown beans, which were eaten alone or cooked with meat. Beans have always been an important part of the Hebrew diet, especially among the poor, and they have been known since ancient times. When beans were threshed and cleaned, they were often mixed with grains for bread ({\cf11 \ul Eze_4:9}).\par\parLVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBox Tree. A tree of very hard wood and glossy leaves, which grew to a height of about 6 meters (20 feet). A native of northern Palestine and the Lebanon mountains, the box tree was well suited to beautify the Temple ({\cf11 \ul Isa_60:13}). The box tree was used since Roman times for wood engravings and musical instruments. Isaiah symbolically used the box tree, along with other trees, to remind the Hebrews of God's perpetual presence ({\cf11 \ul Isa_41:17-20}). \par\par Some scholars have suggested that the box tree of Scripture may instead be the cypress or plane. Also see Chestnut.\par\par ZLVALfN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicBroom. A dense, twiggy bush, almost leafless, which grew to about 3. 6 meters (12 feet). It has small white blooms. Common in the desert regions of Palestine, Arabia, and Egypt, it was used as charcoal ({\cf11 \ul Psa_120:4}) and provided shade for the prophet Elijah ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_19:4-5}). The roots which Job ate were not from the broom, which was not edible, but may have been an edible parasite which infested the bush ({\cf11 \ul Job_30:4}). The broom is sometimes referred to as juniper in the NKJV, KJV, and NASB. Many scholars believe this to be the shrub or heath referred to in ({\cf11 \ul Jer_17:6}) and ({\cf11 \ul Jer_48:6}).\par\par \par\par LVAL#N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicCalamus. A fragrant, reed-like grass growing along streams and river banks ({\cf11 \ul Son_4:14}), also referred to as sweet cane ({\cf11 \ul Isa_43:24}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_6:20}). Calamus leaves are fragrant and ginger-flavored when crushed. It is named with other aromatic substances ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:19}) and as one ingredient for the anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:23}). It is believed to be a plant native to India ({\cf11 \ul Jer_6:20}). Also see Reed Rush.\par\par=qR-Z. xO5w[4×oE+mC( W;"efinitionPalm@{ OnychaD@z Onion,@ Olive@y Oil Tree@x Oak@wNettle@v NardSee Spikenard $ Myrtlef@u Myrrh@t Mustardw@s  Mulberry@r  Mint@$  Millet@q  Melon@p  Marjoram See Hyssop % Mandrake@o Mallow@n Lotus See Lily Lily!@ Lign Aloe See Aloe $Lentil|@ Leek @ LaurelSee Bay Tree % Juniper See Broom # Ilex Cypress  Hyssop@i Henna @ Hemlock@$ Heath See Broom ! Hazel See Almond " Grapesvh Gourd@g Gopherwood See Cypress (GarlicW@ Gall@ Galbanum@ Frankincense @fFlax@ FlagSee Reed Rush $ Fitches@ Fir@eFig@ElmSee Terebinth #Ebony@ Dove Droppings@DillSee Anise; Cumin ' Date PalmSee Palm"Darnel See Tares " Cypress@ Cumin@ Cucumber@$ CrocusSee Rose; Saffron * Corn See Wheat Coriander@$Citron @ CinnamonY@d Chestnut@ Cedar@ Cassoa@ LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicCinnamon. A member of the laurel family, the cinnamon tree grew to be more than 9 meters (30 feet) tall with white flowers and wide-spreading branches. A native of Ceylon, the cinnamon tree produced bark and oil which was used for the anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:23}) and as perfume ({\cf11 \ul Pro_7:17}; {\cf11 \ul Rev_18:13}).\par\par?LVALKN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicFir. An evergreen tree of uncertain identity. Although this tree is mentioned several times in Scripture, biblical authorities question whether this was the true fir or some other evergreen of Palestine. Many suggest the aleppo pine would fit this description, while others think the cypress, juniper, or cedar could be meant.\par\par The Israelites valued the timber of the fir tree for building the Temple ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_6:15}), Kjv, for ship building ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:5}), and for making musical instruments ({\cf11 \ul 2Sa_6:5}). The fir is used symbolically to describe the blessings of God for His people ({\cf11 \ul Isa_41:19}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_55:13}), Kjv.\par\par \par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicFrankincense. An aromatic gum resin obtained from the Boswellia tree. These trees are large with small, white, star-shaped flowers and leaves resembling the mountain ash. The gum is obtained by cutting into the bark and collecting the resin from the tree. When this substance hardens, it is gathered and used as incense.\par\par Frankincense was part of the sacred anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:34}). It was used in sacrificial offering ({\cf11 \ul Lev_2:1}), as a fumigant during animal sacrifices ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:7}), and as perfume ({\cf11 \ul Son_3:6}). It was a gift to baby Jesus ({\cf11 \ul Mat_2:11}).\par\par The trees are native to India, Arabia, and Africa. Palestine probably obtained this product through foreign trade ({\cf11 \ul Isa_60:6}).\par\par sLVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicGourd. A fast-growing shrub which grew to a height of three to four meters (10-12 feet). One of Elisha's servants put the fruit of the gourd into a pot of stew ({\cf11 \ul 2Ki_4:39}).\par\par The gourd ({\cf11 \ul Jon_4:6-10}); (KJV, NEB) is identified as the plant under which Jonah found shade. Some biblical scholars suggest this may have been pumpkin, squash, or ivy.\par\par Many types of wild gourds also flourished in the Mediterranean region. Some of these were poisonous. The decorations used on the Temple called ornamental buds ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_6:18}; {\cf11 \ul 1Ki_7:24}) are thought to be a type of wild gourd.\par\par zLVALN   @2  IDTopic DefGrapes. A luscious fruit cultivated on vines. Large clusters of grapes weighing about five kilograms (12 pounds) each ({\cf11 \ul Num_13:23}) have been reported in Palestine.\par\par Grapes were used in a variety of ways. They were eaten fresh or dried and were made into wine or vinegar. Dried grapes were called raisins. The first suggestion of grapes in Scripture was in connection with Noah's vineyard ({\cf11 \ul Gen_9:20}).\par\par The soil and climate of Palestine was well suited for vineyards, where grapes were grown. They were cultivated here long before the Israelites occupied the land ({\cf11 \ul Gen_14:18}). The vineyards of Palestine produced immense clusters of grapes ({\cf11 \ul Num_13:20}; {\cf11 \ul Num_13:23-24}).\par\par Vineyards were hedged or fenced as protection from wild animals ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:15}). In each vineyard a tower was erected and a guard placed to protect the vines from robbers ({\cf11 \ul Mat_21:33}).\par\par Vinedressers were hired to care for the vines and prune them yearly ({\cf11 \ul Lev_25:3}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_61:5}). The grapes were gathered in baskets in September and October with much festivity ({\cf11 \ul Jdg_9:27}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_16:10}). Provision was made for the poor to glean the fields ({\cf11 \ul Lev_19:10}; {\cf11 \ul Deu_24:21}). The choicest grapes were dried or eaten fresh and the rest were placed in presses to extract the juice ({\cf11 \ul Isa_61:5}; {\cf11 \ul Hos_9:2-4}). This was drunk fresh or fermented.\par\par Jesus alluded to His relationship with His followers by referring to Himself as the vine and to them as the branches ({\cf11 \ul Joh_15:5}). The fruit of the vine symbolized Jesus' shed blood ({\cf11 \ul Mat_26:27-29}). He also used the vineyard in many of His parables ({\cf11 \ul Mat_9:17}; {\cf11 \ul Mat_20:1-6}; {\cf11 \ul Mat_21:28-32}; {\cf11 \ul Luk_13:6-9}).\par\par \par\par LVAL)N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicHyssop. A species of marjoram and a member of the mint family. Hyssop was an aromatic shrub under one meter (three feet) tall with clusters of yellow flowers. It grew in rocky crevices and was cultivated on terraced walls ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_4:33}). Bunches of hyssop were used to sprinkle blood on the doorposts in Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Exo_12:22}), and in purification ceremonies ({\cf11 \ul Lev_14:4}; {\cf11 \ul Lev_14:6}; {\cf11 \ul Lev_14:51-52}). David mentioned it as an instrument of inner cleansing ({\cf11 \ul Psa_51:7}). It was used at the crucifixion to relieve Jesus' thirst ({\cf11 \ul Joh_19:29}). \par\par The hyssop was very similar to the caper plant. It is sometimes rendered marjoram by the NEB.\par\par kB!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!        ! "!#"$#%$&%'&(')(*)+*,+-,.-/.0/102132435465768795:5;5<5=5>5?5@5A5B5 C5 D5 E5 F5 G5H5I5J5K5L5M5N5O5P5Q5R5S5T5U5V5W5X5Y5 Z5![5"\5#]5$^5%_5&`5'a5(b5)c5*d5+e5,f5-g5.h5/i50j51k52l53m54n55o56p@q@r@s@t@u@v@w@x@y@ z@ {@ |@ }@ ~@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"P#P$P%P&P'P(P)P*P+P,P-P.P/P0P1P2P3P4P5cccccccccc c c c c ccccccccccccccccccc c!c#c#@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"j @ @ @ @ @ @ @c$c%c&c'c(c)c*c+c, c- c. c/ c0 c1c2c3c4c5c6c7c8c9c:c;c<||||||| |!|"| #| $| %| &| '|(|)|*|+|,|-|.|/|0|1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9| :|!;|"mB!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!B!        ! "!#"$#%$&%'&(')(*)+*,+-,.-/.0/102132435465768795:5;5<5=5>5?5@5A5B5 C5 D5 E5 F5 G5H5I5J5K5L5M5N5O5P5Q5R5S5T5U5V5W5X5Y5 Z5![5"\5#]5$^5%_5&`5'a5(b5)c5*d5+e5,f5-g5.h5/i50j51k52l53m54n55o56p@q@r@s@t@u@v@w@x@y@ z@ {@ |@ }@ ~@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"P#P$P%P&P'P(P)P*P+P,P-P.P/P0P1P2P3P4P5cccccccccc c c c c ccccccccccccccccccc c!c#c#@@ @!@"@#@$@%@&@'@(@)@*@+@,@-@.@/@0@1@2@3@4@5PPPPPPPPPP P P P P PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP P!P"l @ @ @ @ @ @ @c$c%c&c'c(c)c*c+c, c- c. c/ c0 c1c2c3c4c5c6c7c8c9c:c;c<||||||| |!|"| #| $| %| &| '|(|)|*|+|,|-|.|/|0|1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9| :|!;|"LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMallow. A shrub growing one and one-half to three meters (five to ten feet) high and having thick succulent leaves and small purple flowers. The Hebrew word for mallow means "salt plant." It thrived in dry, salty regions especially around the Dead Sea. Although the leaves were sour and had little nutritive value, they were boiled and eaten by the poor in dire circumstances.\par\par Mentioned only once in the Bible ({\cf11 \ul Job_30:4}), mallow is also translated as salt herbs in the NIV and saltwort in the NEB.\par\par LVAL$N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMandrake. A fruit-producing plant with dark green leaves and small bluish-purple flowers. The mandrake is a relative of the potato family which grew abundantly throughout Palestine and the Mediterranean region.\par\par The yellow fruit of the mandrake was small, sweet-tasting, and fragrant. It had narcotic qualities and may have been used medicinally. The fruit of the mandrake was also referred to as the "love apple." It was considered a love potion.\par\par \par\par  LVAL, N      @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMelon. A type of gourd which bears sweet fruit. Both cantaloupes and watermelons may have grown along the banks of the Nile River in Egypt. Melons were used as food and medicine. An intoxicating drink was made from their juice.\par\par The Hebrews had become accustomed to eating melons and other tasty foods in Egypt. They looked back on these fondly while in the wilderness ({\cf11 \ul Num_1:5}). This word is translated watermelon by the NEB.\par\par \par\par LVAL  N      @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMillet. An annual grain-producing grass which was under one meter (three feet) high and produced many seeds. The seeds of millet were smaller than other cereal grains. Millet has been known since ancient times in Palestine and Egypt. It was used for bread ({\cf11 \ul Eze_4:9}) and eaten raw, especially by the poor. \par\par Millet is referred to in several different ways in ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:17}). It is translated pannag in the KJV, confections in the NIV, meal in the NEB, and cakes in the NASB.\par\par +LVAL7  N      @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMulberry. A tree which grew to a height of about eight to ten meters (25-30 feet) and produced red berries. A refreshing drink was prepared from the fruit. Jesus used the mulberry tree as an illustration when teaching about faith ({\cf11 \ul Luk_17:6}). It is called sycamine in the KJV and RSV, and aspen in the NEB. The mulberry trees mentioned in ({\cf11 \ul 2Sa_5:23-24}) and ({\cf11 \ul 1Ch_14:14-15}) are believed to be a species of poplar.\par\par}LVAL N      @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMustard. A plant which grew wild along roadsides and in fields, reaching a height of about 4. 6 meters (15 feet). The black mustard of Palestine seems to be the species to which Jesus referred ({\cf11 \ul Mat_13:31-32}; {\cf11 \ul Mar_4:31-32}; {\cf11 \ul Luk_13:19}). It was cultivated for its seeds which were used as a condiment and for oil.\par\par The mustard seed was the smallest seed known in Jesus' day ({\cf11 \ul Mat_13:32}). Nevertheless, Jesus said that if one has faith as a mustard seed, he can move mountains ({\cf11 \ul Mat_17:20}) or transplant a mulberry tree in the sea ({\cf11 \ul Luk_17:6}).\par\par dLVALp N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMyrrh. An extract from a stiff-branched tree with white flowers and plum-like fruit. After myrrh was extracted from the wood, it soon hardened and was valued as an article of trade. It was an ingredient used in anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:23}), and was used as perfume ({\cf11 \ul Psa_45:8}; {\cf11 \ul Pro_7:17}; {\cf11 \ul Son_3:6}), in purification rites for women ({\cf11 \ul Est_2:12}), as a gift for the infant Jesus ({\cf11 \ul Mat_2:11}), and in embalming ({\cf11 \ul Joh_19:39}). According to the Gospel of Mark (15:23), the drink offered to Jesus before His crucifixion was "wine mingled with myrrh." Matthew, however, has "sour wine mingled with gall" ({\cf11 \ul Mat_27:34}).\par\par The reference to myrrh in ({\cf11 \ul Gen_37:25}) and (43:11) is thought to be ladanum, sometimes called onycha, from a species of rockrose and not the true myrrh. Also see Onycha.\par\par \par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicMyrtle. An evergreen tree with dark glossy leaves and white flowers. The leaves, flowers, and berries of the myrtle were used for perfume and as seasoning for food. The myrtle tree had a religious significance for the Hebrews ({\cf11 \ul Zec_1:8-11}) and was a symbol of peace and joy. Queen Esther's Hebrew name ({\cf11 \ul Est_2:7}) meant myrtle.\par\parLVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicNettle. Two different plants referred to in the Bible:\par\par 1. The nettles mentioned in ({\cf11 \ul Isa_34:13}) and ({\cf11 \ul Hos_9:6}) are believed to be the true nettle. It is a spiney leaf plant sometimes growing to a height of about two meters (six feet).\par\par 2. The nettles referred to in ({\cf11 \ul Job_30:7}) and ({\cf11 \ul Pro_24:31}) are considered by some to be the acanthus, a stinging plant common in Palestine.\par\par The nettles of ({\cf11 \ul Zep_2:9}) Kjv are translated weeds by the NKJV.\par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicOak. A large tree with a massive trunk that grew abundantly in Palestine and the surrounding countries. Many Hebrew words refer to the oak. Some scholars think these words could have referred to any large tree such as the terebinth or elm.\par\par The oak tree was an important historical landmark to the Hebrews. Some specific oak trees are mentioned in the Bible. These include the oaks of Bashan ({\cf11 \ul Isa_2:13}; {\cf11 \ul Zec_11:2}), the oak of Bethel ({\cf11 \ul Gen_35:8}), (KJV; terebinth tree, NKJV), and the oaks of Mamre ({\cf11 \ul Gen_13:18}), (RSV; terebinth trees, NKJV).\par\par Oak wood was also used in shipbuilding ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:6}), and for fashioning idols ({\cf11 \ul Isa_44:14}). Also see Tamarisk; Terebinth.\par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicOil Tree. A tree of uncertain identity. Many oil-producing trees mentioned in the Bible could be identified as the oil tree. Many authorities believe the oleaster or wild olive is the tree meant. It grew to a height of about 4. 5 to 6 meters (15-20 feet) and produced small bitter fruit resembling an olive. The oleaster yielded an inferior oil which was used medicinally.\par\par The oil tree of ({\cf11 \ul Isa_41:19}) is translated olive tree in the RSV, NIV, NEB, and NASB. Also see Olive.\par\par LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicOlive. A fruit-bearing tree about six meters (20 feet) tall with a gnarled, twisted trunk, white flowers, and berries that ripen to a black color. The olive tree grew slowly and continued\par\par to bear fruit after reaching a great age. Before it died, new branches sprouted from its roots.\par\par The fruit was harvested by beating the boughs of the olive tree with a stick ({\cf11 \ul Deu_24:20}), or by shaking the tree ({\cf11 \ul Isa_17:6}). The ripe fruit was enjoyed fresh or the green fruit was often pickled or made into a relish.\par\par The best oil was obtained from the green olive fruit. It was used as fuel for lamps ({\cf11 \ul Exo_27:20}), as anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Lev_2:1}), as an article of commerce ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_5:11}), and for dressing wounds ({\cf11 \ul Luk_10:34}).\par\par Olive trees were cultivated in groves or orchards ({\cf11 \ul Exo_23:11}; {\cf11 \ul Jos_24:13}). The most famous olive garden mentioned in the Bible is Gethsemane, meaning "oil press" ({\cf11 \ul Mat_26:36}).\par\par \par\par LVALOnycha. A dark brown gum resin which was obtained from the stem and leaves of a species of the rockrose, also known as ladanum. Onycha was used as an ingredient in the holy anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:34}). It was highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal qualities.\par\par The rockrose was a bush growing to a height of about one meter (three feet) and having large white flowers measuring eight centimeters (three inches) across. Some scholars believe the substance referred to as myrrh in ({\cf11 \ul Gen_37:25}) and ({\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}) was onycha.\par\par LVAL N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicPalm. A tree which grew to a height of about 18 to 30 meters (60-100 feet) and had long feathery leaves (branches; {\cf11 \ul Neh_8:15}; {\cf11 \ul Joh_12:13}; {\cf11 \ul Rev_7:9}). These branches were about two to three meters (six to eight feet) long and grew from the top of the trunk. Also called the date palm, this tree is believed to grow from 100 to 200 years old.\par\par Palm branches were considered a symbol of victory ({\cf11 \ul Joh_12:13}; {\cf11 \ul Rev_7:9}). Many places in the Bible were identified by the abundance of palm trees ({\cf11 \ul Exo_15:27}; {\cf11 \ul Deu_34:3}; {\cf11 \ul Jdg_1:16}). One of the Hebrew words for palm, Tamar, was often used as a woman's name ({\cf11 \ul Gen_38:6}; {\cf11 \ul 2Sa_13:1}).\par\par #oF% kN%eI.c>y^;;Snakev  :Wormwood@ 9Willowd@ 8Wheat@ 7WatermelonMelon "6Vine See Grapes ! 5ThymeCitron  4Thistles Thorns0@ 3TerebinthV@2TeilSee Terebinth $ 1Tares@ 0Tamarisk@$ /Sycamore@ .SycamineSee Mulberry ' -Straw`@ ,Stacte,@ +Spikenard@*Spelt@ )Shittim Wood See Acacia )(Shittah Tree See Acacia )'Saltwort See Mallow % &Salt Herb See Mallow$%Saffron@ $Rye See Spelt #Rue@"Rose@ !Reed Rush@ Raisin See Grapes # Poplar@ Pomegranate@PlaneSee Chestnut $ Pistachio Nut@~Pine^@} PapyrusSee Reed Rush ' Pannag See Millet # LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicPine. An evergreen tree of uncertain identity. Biblical scholars believe pine refers to either the Brutian or the Aleppo pine ({\cf11 \ul Isa_41:19}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_60:13}). The Brutian pine grew to a height of about 9 to 11 meters (30-35 feet). It is smaller and has longer needles than the Aleppo pine, which grew to a height of about 27 meters (90 feet). Both trees grew in Lebanon and in Palestine.\par\par Bible scholars are not agreed on the identity of the many evergreens mentioned in the Bible. Other trees suggested for these references are the ash, fir, cypress, cedar, or juniper.\par\par TLVAL`N   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicPistachio Nut. A product of the pistacia tree, which was about nine meters (30 feet) tall with wide spreading branches. The pistachio nut is about 2. 5 centimeters (one inch) long and has a thin, hard outer shell. The smooth husk or skin which shields the green kernel is red. These nuts were sweet and considered a luxury. Jacob included them in the gifts sent to Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}).\par\par \par\par  LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicPomegranate. A round, sweet fruit about ten centimeters (four inches) across with a hard rind. It is green when young and turns red when ripe. There are numerous edible seeds inside the pomegranate.\par\par The pomegranate tree has been cultivated in Palestine and Egypt since ancient times ({\cf11 \ul Num_13:23}; {\cf11 \ul Deu_8:8}). It grew as a bush or small tree, sometimes reaching a height of about 9 meters (30 feet) with small, lance-shaped leaves. The blossoms were bright red. The fruit usually ripened in August or September. \par\par Pomegranates were highly esteemed during Bible times. The hem of Aaron's robe was decorated with blue, purple, and red pomegranates ({\cf11 \ul Exo_28:33-34}; {\cf11 \ul Exo_39:24-26}). It was listed among the pleasant fruits of Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Num_20:5}). Solomon decorated the Temple with the likeness of the pomegranate ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_7:18}; {\cf11 \ul 1Ki_7:20}). A spiced wine was made from the juice ({\cf11 \ul Son_8:2}).\par\par  LVALN   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicPoplar. A tree which grew to a height of about 9 to 18 meters (30-60 feet) and had wide spreading branches. The leaves were green with white undersides. Jacob stripped the bark from poplar branches to reveal the white wood. This was supposed to control the color of his cattle ({\cf11 \ul Gen_30:37}).\par\par Hosea refers to the Israelites worshiping idols in the shade of poplar trees. This brought God's condemnation for their sin ({\cf11 \ul Hos_4:13}). Also see Willow.\par\par :LVALF!N      @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicReed Rush. Gigantic hollow-stemmed grasses which grew along river banks and in moist areas of Egypt and Palestine. Many different Hebrew words refer to the marsh plants of the Bible. They form a large order of plants, such as flax, flags, bulrush, cane, calamus, and papyrus.\par\par Reeds and rushes grew anywhere from one to six meters (3-20 feet) high and had long, narrow leaves. A cluster of white flowers formed at the top of each stem.\par\par The reeds were used in various ways, including walking sticks, fishing poles, musical instruments, and pens. People also used them for weaving baskets, mats, and for other domestic purposes. Moses' basket was woven from reeds. Papyrus, a particular reed, was used to make paper. \par\par Reeds were a symbol of weakness. Jesus refers to them as shaking in the wind ({\cf11 \ul Mat_11:7}). A reed was placed in Jesus' hand as He was mocked by the Roman soldiers ({\cf11 \ul Mat_27:29}).\par\par LVAL$ "N!!!   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicRose. The name of two different plants of the Bible:\par\par 1. Most authorities think that the rose referred to in ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:1}) and ({\cf11 \ul Isa_35:1}) is not what we know as the rose today, but a low-growing bulbous plant producing from two to four yellow flowers on each stalk. This flower is noted for its fragrance. Other scholars have suggested the mountain tulip, anemone, saffron, or crocus as the flower in question. All of these flowers grew wild in Palestine. This particular flower is translated crocus by the RSV, NIV, and NASB ({\cf11 \ul Isa_35:1}) and asphodel by the NEB ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:1}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_35:2}). The flower we call the "Rose of Sharon" is a native of China and is not the one mentioned by Solomon ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:1}).\par\par 2. The rose of ({\cf11 \ul Ecc_24:14}; {\cf11 \ul Ecc_39:13}) (NEB) is thought to be the oleander. This shrub grows to a height of about 3. 6 meters (12 feet) and has pink or white flowers.\par\par HLVALT(*N)))   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicSpelt. An inferior kind of wheat. Although the bread made from this grain was of a poorer quality than that made from wheat, spelt was preferred over barley by many in the ancient world. The KJV translates this word as rye in ({\cf11 \ul Exo_9:32}) and ({\cf11 \ul Isa_28:25}), and as fitches in ({\cf11 \ul Eze_4:9}). Spelt was sown later than wheat. It thrived in poor soil and under adverse conditions.\par\par \par\par LVAL)+N***   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicSpikenard. A costly oil derived from the dried roots and stems of the nard, an herb of Asia. This oil was used as a liquid or made into an ointment. Solomon praised the fragrance of spikenard ({\cf11 \ul Son_1:12}; {\cf11 \ul Son_4:13-14}).\par\par Spikenard was imported from India in alabaster boxes. These were stored and used only for special occasions. When household guests arrived, they were usually anointed with this oil. Jesus\par\par was anointed on two occasions as an honored guest ({\cf11 \ul Mar_14:3}; {\cf11 \ul Joh_12:3}).\par\par Many spikes grew from a single nard root which produced clusters of pink flowers. The stems were covered with hair, giving them a woolly appearance. Some translations of the Bible refer to\par\par spikenard as nard.\par\par LVAL*,N+++   @2  IDTopic Definition@@ @@@@@ID PrimaryKeyTopicStacte. A resin believed to be an extract of the stems and branches of the storax tree. Stacte was highly prized as perfume and as incense. It was one of the ingredients of anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:34}).\par\par The storax was a small, stiff shrub growing to a height of about 3 to 6 meters (10-20 feet), which grew abundantly in Lebanon and throughout Palestine. Its leaves were dark with grayish-white undersides. In spring the storax flowered profusely with highly fragrant white blooms which resembled the orange blossom.\par\par \par\par gLVALsWheat. The most important cereal grass mentioned in the Bible. This was the bearded variety belonging to the genus Triticum. It was cultivated in Bible lands from early times ({\cf11 \ul Gen_30:14}). Egyptian wheat was the many-eare d variety called "mummy wheat."This was the wheat of Pharaoh's dream ({\cf11 \ul Gen_41:5-57}). It was also depicted on Egyptian monuments.\par\par Wheat was sown after barley in November or December. It was usually broadcast and then either plowed or trodden into the soil by oxen or other animals ({\cf11 \ul Isa_32:20}). This grain was used for bread ({\cf11 \ul Exo_29:32}), and was also eaten parched ({\cf11 \ul Lev_23:14}; {\cf11 \ul Rth_2:14}). It was used in ceremonial offerings ({\cf11 \ul Lev_2:1}; {\cf11 \ul Lev_24:5-7}) and as an article of commerce ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:17}; {\cf11 \ul Act_27:38}).\par\par When corn is mentioned in the Bible, it refers to wheat, as corn was not known in Bible times ({\cf11 \ul Psa_72:16}; {\cf11 \ul Mat_12:1}; {\cf11 \ul Mar_4:28}). Jesus compared His death to a grain of wheat which must die\par\par to produce fruit ({\cf11 \ul Joh_12:24}).\par\par \par\par LVAL11\ul Isa_9:6-7}; {\cf11\ul Isa_11:1-9}).\par\par LVAL Lizard. Lizards receive little attention in the Bible, although they are common in Palestine. They appeared on the list of unclean animals ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:30}) and were thus forbidden as food to the Israelites.\par\par The lizard comes in many species. Some of the small lizards often pass for snakes, while larger versions of this animal resemble the crocodile. All lizards are cold-blooded reptiles. Since their body temperature depends on their surroundings, they thrive in the tropics and in deserts. But when the sun gets too hot even for them, they lie in the shade or burrow into the sand. One species is even called a sand lizard ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:30}); (skink, NIV).\par\par Lizards are ingenious in the different ways they move. Some unfurl skin-like sails and soar from tree to tree. Monitor lizards (probably the Bible's great lizard, ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:29}), RSV, NIV) swim well. They can also climb trees. Many lizards scamper rapidly across the ground. Others have poorly developed legs or no legs at all. But the little gecko (translated ferret in KJV, ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:30}) can walk across a plaster ceiling upside down or cling to a pane of glass. His toes end in a pad made of hundreds of tiny hooks, capped with a hidden claw. This enables him to get a foothold on smooth surfaces. Geckos are abundant in Palestine.\par\par Most lizards eat insects. Larger species of this reptile also eat small animals or plants. The chameleon's sticky tongue, nearly as long as his body, whips out to catch insects. Chameleons are also common in Palestine. They are so narrow they look as if they have been squashed, and their bulging eyes can see in opposite directions. They have a long tail that can grasp a branch or coil into a spiral when at rest. Chameleons move at a slow, deliberate pace.\par\par The chameleon is known for its ability to change its color to match its surroundings. Actually, this is a common protective trait for most species of lizards. Another defensive tactic is the use of tricks or bluffsXLVALd. The glass snake, a type of lizard, escapes capture by shedding its wiggling tail. Other lizards hiss, puff up, or use their tails as whips. \par\par LVAL$Mole. Palestine has no true moles. The few Bible references to moles probably mean a burrowing rat that resembles a mole. "Mole rats" live underground and feed on roots and bulbs, to the distress of farmers. Their tiny ears and eyes are nearly hidden in their thick coats of fur. Because these mole rats live in darkness, the prophet Isaiah referred to them as symbols of the spiritually blind. The NEB translates "dung-beetles" ({\cf11\ul Isa_2:20}). Also see Weasel.\par\parpLVAL|Monkey. Monkeys are not native to Palestine. So King Solomon apparently had them imported from other nations, along with apes and other exotic goods such as ivory, silver, and gold. They may have come from India, Africa, or even parts of Lower Egypt. The NKJV has "monkeys" in ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_10:22}) and ({\cf11\ul 2Ch_9:21}). Other versions translate as "peacocks." Also see Ape.\par\par;LVALGMoth. Moths are mentioned several times in the Bible as a symbol of destructiveness and the perishable nature of all earthly goods. In ({\cf11\ul Hos_5:12}), God says, "I will be to Ephraim like a moth." Just as the damage caused by moths takes place slowly and undetected, so God would quietly, but inevitably, bring judgment upon His backsliding people.\par\par The female moth lays her eggs upon garments. When the eggs hatch into caterpillars, they feed on the fibers, eventually leaving the garment full of holes. Jesus warned against placing too much confidence and hope in worldly possessions that could be wiped out so easily by moths ({\cf11\ul Mat_6:19}; {\cf11\ul Luk_12:33})\par\par wLVALMouse. About 40 kinds of mice are found in the Holy Land. These include house and field mice, moles, small rats, jerboas, and even hamsters. Arabs ate hamsters, but the Hebrew people considered all rodents unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:29}; {\cf11\ul Isa_66:17}).\par\par In spite of its small size, the mouse is one of the most destructive animals in the world. Swarms of mice threatened grain crops in ancient times. When the Philistines stole the ARK OF THE COVENANT, God punished them by sending a swarm of mice which infected them with a disease ({\cf11\ul 1Sa_6:4-5}; {\cf11\ul 1Sa_6:11}; {\cf11\ul 1Sa_6:18}); (rats, NKJV).\par\par LVALNighthawk. This is another bird mentioned in the Bible only on the list of unclean birds ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:15}). No specific characteristics are given which might help to identify the bird. Nighthawks, also called nightjars, are found in the Holy Land, but they are not predators. There is no obvious reason why nighthawks would be considered unclean by the Israelites. Other translations render the Hebrew word for nighthawk as owl (NASB) or screech owl (NIV). After sunset, nighthawks fly high into the air to hunt for insects. They build nests near the ground in thickets or hedges.\par\parLVALOsprey. Sometimes called fish hawk or fishing eagle, the osprey is a member of the hawk family. With a six-foot wingspan, it is one of the larger birds of prey. The osprey appears on the list of "unclean birds" ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:13}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:12}). Some scholars think the term refers to the black vulture. Also see Vulture.\par\par LVALOstrich. Several Scripture passages that refer to owls in the KJV are rendered ostrich in the RSV. This strange bird was a common sight in the deserts of Israel and Sinai in Bible times. Earth's largest living bird, the ostrich may stand about 2. 5 meters (eight feet) tall. While it cannot fly, this unusual animal with its long steps, which can cover 15 feet per stride at top speed, can outrun a horse. Sometimes an ostrich will use its wings as a sail to achieve even greater speed. An adult ostrich fears only man and lions, and it may live as long as 70 years.\par\par The popular belief that ostriches hide their heads in the sand is not true. However, when a young ostrich senses danger, it will crouch near the ground and stretch out its long neck to lessen the possibility of being seen.\par\par This enormous bird has only a walnut-sized brain. But God has given it certain helpful instincts, along with its great physical stamina. Like a camel, the ostrich is fitted for desert life. It eats coarse food and can go for a long time without water. Its head, neck, and powerful legs have no feathers. This helps to keep the bird cool in the hot desert climate. Its huge eyes enable it to spot danger from a great distance, and its long eyelashes protect its eyes from dust and sand. The male ostrich has a cry that is similar to a lion's roar.\par\par Unlike most other birds, the ostrich does not build a nest to protect its young. The female ostrich deposits her eggs on the desert floor and covers them with sand. These eggs are generally left unattended during the day, since the desert sun serves as a natural incubator. Job compared these habits unfavorably with the more traditional nesting instincts of the stork ({\cf11\ul Job_39:13-18}).\par\par LVAL!Owl. The owl is mentioned several times in the Bible ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16-17}; {\cf11\ul Psa_102:6}; {\cf11\ul Jer_50:39}; {\cf11\ul Mic_1:8}). The largest species native to Palestine is the great owl, sometimes called an eagle owl. Several varieties of smaller owls are also common. Among them are screech owls, whose calls and whistles bring an eerie feeling in the night.\par\par Other varieties of owls mentioned by different translations of the Bible include the short-eared owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}), (NKJV, NEB); long-eared owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}), (NEB); horned owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}), (NIV); little owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:17}), (KJV, NIV, NASB); tawny owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:17}), (NEB); fisher owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:17}), (NKJV); desert owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (NIV); and white owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (NKJV, NIV, NASB).\par\par The owl is no wiser than any other bird, but his facial features give him a thoughtful and solemn look. Owls have round faces with a circle of feathers around their heads, framing and highlighting their large eyes. These feathers also serve as a sound collector for the ears. An owl's fluffy feathers make him appear larger than he actually is. They also enable him to fly silently, since the edges of the feathers pierce the air with little wind resistance.\par\par Owls have good night vision, which enables them to stalk their prey at night. Unlike other birds, whose eyes are set on opposite sides of their head, the owl looks directly ahead. He navigates in the dark mostly by sound. Alerted by a noise, he plunges in toward his prey with his claws spread for the kill.\par\par Owls serve a useful agricultural purpose, since they feed on rats, mice, and other rodents. But the Hebrew people considered the owl an unclean bird and often associated it with scenes of desolation. The scops owl may be the satyr of such verses as (Isa_13:21) and (34:14) (night creature, NKJV). It has a horned look and does a hop-like dance much like a goat.\par\par PLVAL\Partridge. From early times, the partridge has been a game bird. They were among the birds which could be eaten as clean food by the Jewish people. Two species, the sand partridge ({\cf11\ul Isa_34:15}), (NEB) and the chukar, are common in Palestine.\par\par Partridges live in fields, feeding on grain and insects. They usually travel in coveys of 12 to 30 birds. Their meat is tasty, and the bird is clever enough to give the hunter a fine chase. It takes sharp eyes to spot the mottled feathers of a partridge. When alarmed, the bird will hide in a hole, crouch among loose stones, or fly from tree to tree with loudly whirring wings. David compared himself to a partridge when he was fleeing from Saul ({\cf11\ul 1Sa_26:20}).\par\par The prophet Jeremiah compared the person who gathered riches by unrighteous means to a partridge that gathers a brood of young birds which she has not hatched ({\cf11\ul Jer_17:11}).\par\par "LVAL.Peacock. According to the KJV, Solomon imported peacocks from other nations for his royal courts in Israel ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_10:22}; {\cf11\ul 2Ch_9:21}). A peacock, the male of the species, is about the size of a turkey, with feathers of brilliant blue, green, and purple. He parades in front of the female, spreading his train of gorgeous long plumes behind him like a huge fan. Some versions of the Bible translate this term as monkeys, peacocks, or baboons.\par\parLVALPelican. The pelican is one of the largest webfooted birds, often reaching 2 meters (6 feet) in length with a 3 meter (lo-foot) wingspread. But in spite of its great size, the pelican swims and flies well.\par\par Pelicans live in colonies, and they are known as experts at catching fish for food. Their long bills have an elastic pouch on the bottom half. With this pouch a pelican scoops up several quarts of water along with his prey. The pouch serves also as a dinner bowl for baby pelicans, who dip into it for a partially digested treat.\par\par Beautiful in flight, the pelican is a haunting, solitary figure when at rest. Perhaps this was the image in David's mind when he declared, "I am like a pelican of the wilderness" ({\cf11\ul Psa_102:6}). Other translations render the word as vulture, desert-owl, or jackdaw.\par\par 1LVAL=Porcupine. The prophets Isaiah and Zephaniah mention a wild creature that lived in desolate ruined places ({\cf11\ul Isa_14:23}; {\cf11\ul Isa_34:11}; {\cf11\ul Zep_2:14}). The KJV calls it a bittern, but the RSV translates the animal as hedgehog or porcupine (bustard, NEB). Palestine does have porcupines, even today. They are small animals with sharp needles all over their backs. When in danger, the porcupine rolls up into a prickly ball.\par\parLVAL.Willow. A tree which grew to about 9 to 12 meters (30-40 feet) and had reddish-brown bark; narrow, pointed leaves; and flowers or catkins which hung downward. Willow branches were used to construct the booths for the Feast of Tabernacles ({\cf11 \ul Lev_23:40}). The Israelites hung their harps on willows while in Babylon. \par\par Some biblical scholars think the willow mentioned in the Bible was actually the poplar or Euphrates Aspen. The word for willow is consistently translated as poplar by the NIV. ({\cf11 \ul Isa_44:4}) is translated poplar by the NEB and NASB as well. Also see Poplar.\par\par Quail. In Palestine, the quail is a migrating bird that arrives in droves along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. With their strong flying muscles, these birds can fly rapidly for a short time. When migrating, however, they stretch their wings and allow the wind to bear them along. Sometimes they reach land so exhausted after their long flight that they can be caught by hand.\par\par Most of the time quail remain on the ground, scratching for food and helping farmers by eating insects. Their brown-speckled bodies are inconspicuous, but they often give away their presence by a shrill whistle.\par\par The Hebrew people probably ate dried, salted quail while they were enslaved by the Egyptians. When they longed for meat in the Sinai desert, God promised He would provide enough meat for a month. Then He directed thousands of quail to their camp, where the birds dropped in exhaustion ({\cf11\ul Num_11:31-34}; {\cf11\ul Exo_16:13}; {\cf11\ul Psa_105:40}).\par\par #LVAL33\ul Ecc_7:6}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_33:12}).\par\par Thorny shrubs were used as hedges to guard fields and vineyards ({\cf11 \ul Pro_15:19}; {\cf11 \ul Mar_12:1}). The prophet Micah declared that even the most upright person is "sharper [more destructive] than a thorn hedge" ({\cf11 \ul Mic_7:4}).\par\par Terebinth. A large spreading tree which grew to a height of about 6 to 8 meters (20-26 feet) with reddish-green leaves and red berries in clusters. The terebinth is mentioned several times in the Bible. It is sometimes translated as teil ({\cf11 \ul Isa_6:13}), elm ({\cf11 \ul Hos_4:13}), or oak ({\cf11 \ul Gen_35:4}) by the KJV.\par\parRaven. In the Bible, raven is a catch-all term for crows, ravens, rooks, jackdaws, magpies, and jays. All were considered unclean by the Jewish people ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:15}). With a wingspread of about 1 meter (three feet), the raven is the largest member of this family.\par\par Ravens are scavenger birds that will eat almost anything. Their harsh cry has probably contributed to their reputation as birds of ill omen. Since they have keen eyes and strong wings, this may explain why the first bird Noah sent from the ark was a raven ({\cf11\ul Gen_8:7}). These birds were also known for their practice of pecking out the eyes of a body-- a quick way to determine whether their meal was actually dead! ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:17}).\par\par The Bible indicates that God feeds even young ravens ({\cf11\ul Job_38:41}). Jesus used a similar example to illustrate God's care ({\cf11\ul Luk_12:24}). Because God sent ravens to feed the prophet Elijah, ravens are also associated with God's protective care ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_17:4}; {\cf11\ul 1Ki_17:6}). Solomon brought the expression, "black as a raven," into common use ({\cf11\ul Son_5:11}).\par\par LVALnTares. A poisonous grass resembling wheat, but with smaller seeds. The tares were usually left in the fields until harvest time, then separated from the wheat during winnowing. Jesus used tares growing with wheat as a parable to illustrate evil in the world ({\cf11 \ul Mat_13:25-30}; {\cf11 \ul Mat_13:36-40}). Tares is translated weeds in the RSV and NIV, and darnel in the NEB.\par\par \par\par Sycamore. A huge evergreen tree growing to a height of about 12 to 15 meters (40-50 feet) with a trunk circumference of over 6. 5 meters (20 feet). The trunk forked near the ground, and the branches grew outward.\par\par The leaves of the sycamore, sometimes called the sycamore fig, were heart-shaped, resembling the leaves of the mulberry. The fruit was similar to the true fig but was inferior in quality. These yellow figs grew in cluste rs close to the branches.\par\par Sycamores were trees of the plains ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_10:27}) and could not tolerate colder climates ({\cf11 \ul Psa_78:47}). The sycamore was the tree which Zacchaeus climbed to gain a better view of Jesus ({\cf11 \ul Luk_19:4}).\par\par \par\par Rock Badger. The rock badger or rock hyrax is a rabbit-sized furry animal. With short ears, sharp teeth, and black-button eyes, it resembles an overgrown guinea pig ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:5}); (coney, KJV, NIV).\par\par "The rock badgers are a feeble folk, yet they make their homes in the crags," says ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:26}), holding them up as little things that are "exceedingly wise." Feeble, or defenseless they may be, but they find safety in steep, rocky terrain. Their feet have a suction-like grip that enables them to scamper among rocky outcroppings. Their enemies easily overlook a rock badger stretched out motionless on a sun-warmed rock.\par\par %LVAL25Straw. The dried stalks of various grains such as spelt, barley, millet, or many kinds of wheat. Straw could also include stalks of wild grasses. Straw was mixed with grain and used as fodder ({\cf11 \ul Gen_24:25}; {\cf11 \ul Jdg_19:19}; {\cf11 \ul 1Ki_4:28}). The Egyptians mixed straw with clay for stronger bricks ({\cf11 \ul Exo_5:7}).\par\parSaffron. The product of many varieties of crocus, a flower which grew from a bulb and produced light-blue flowers.\par\par Crocus blooms were gathered, dried, and pressed into cakes of saffron. Saffron was used as a coloring for curries and stews. It was also used as a perfume for the floors of theaters and for weddings. Solomon was the only Bible writer to refer to saffron ({\cf11 \ul Son_4:14}).\par\par Scorpion. The scorpion is a small crawling animal that looks like a flat lobster. A member of the spider family, it has eight legs, two sets of pincers, and a tail with a poisonous stinger. A scorpion feeds on spiders and insects, which it rips apart with its claws. It uses its poisonous sting only when threatened or when it attacks large prey. This sting is seldom fatal, but it can be very painful ({\cf11\ul Rev_9:5}).\par\par During the day, scorpions escape the desert heat by hiding under rocks. They come out at night to hunt and eat. Inhabitants of Bible lands feared scorpions. These animals were an ever-present danger when Moses led the children of Israel through the hot, rocky wilderness ({\cf11\ul Deu_8:15}).\par\par Jesus' words in ({\cf11\ul Luk_11:12}) about giving a person a scorpion instead of an egg may refer to a light-colored scorpion, which could be mistaken for an egg when in a coiled position. The prophet Ezekiel was told by God not to be afraid of his enemies, who were referred to symbolically as scorpions ({\cf11\ul Eze_2:6}). King Rehoboam's threat did not mean he would use scorpions as whips ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_12:14}). In those days a barbed whip or scourge was called a "scorpion."\par\par %LVALU>9Rue. A garden herb growing one-half to one meter (two to three feet) high with gray-green foliage and clusters of small yellow flowers. Rue had a strong odor. It was valued for its antiseptic and disinfectant qualities. It was also used to flavor foods.\par\parfor Animal, see Grasshopper for Plant, Locust. An evergreen tree growing about 6 to 9 meters (20-30 feet) tall and having small glossy leaves. A native of Syria and Palestine, it bears long pods known as carob or locust beans ({\cf11 \ul Luk_15:16}); (husks, KJV). These may have been used for food in dire circumstances ({\cf11 \ul 2Ki_6:25}), (NEB).\par\par \par\par Lily. A flower with white or rosy-purple blooms measuring up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) across. Many scholars think the lily is sometimes a term applied to flowers in general. Others believe specific types such as the Turks Cap, the Madonna, or the lotus is referred to.\par\par The lily was used as an ornament for the Temple ({\cf11 \ul 1Ki_7:22}). The Beloved and the Shulamite used lilies to describe their love ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:1}; {\cf11 \ul Son_2:16}; {\cf11 \ul Son_4:5}; {\cf11 \ul Son_5:13}; {\cf11 \ul Son_6:3}).\par\par Lentil. A small annual plant with white, violet-striped flowers. The seeds of lentils grew in pods similar to the pea. During Bible times lentil was threshed like wheat and boiled into a reddish-brown pottage. This was the dish which Esau purchased with his birthright ({\cf11 \ul Gen_25:34}). Lentils could also be used as an ingredient for bread ({\cf11 \ul Eze_4:9}).\par\parSea Gull. Sea gulls are birds about the size of pigeons. They have long wings, which they use to swoop and soar gracefully on air currents. Gulls gather in flocks near bodies of water. They are scavengers who eat garbage as well as fish and insects. Sea gulls are mentioned only in some translations of the Bible. Others translate the Hebrew term as cuckoo, sea mew, or owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:15}).\par\parLVAL[Q1Leek. A bulbous vegetable resembling the onion which grows 15 centimeters (about six inches) high. The stems and bulbs of leeks were eaten raw and used to flavor foods. Named with garlic and onions, the leek was a food which the Hebrew people ate in Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Num_11:5}).\par\parHenna. A plant used to produce a valuable orange-red dye. It was two to three meters (seven to ten feet) tall and bore fragrant white flowers. Solomon compared his beloved to a cluster of henna ({\cf11 \ul Son_1:14}; {\cf11 \ul Son_4:13}); (camphire, KJV).\par\parGarlic. A strong-flavored herb, resembling the onion. Garlic was eaten with bread and used to flavor food and is still highly favored today. Garlic was highly esteemed in Egypt and was believed to have been used as wages for the workers who built the pyramids. The Hebrews yearned for garlic after leaving Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Num_1:5}).\par\parSea Monster. Several terms are used in the Bible to describe large sea creatures: sea monsters or serpents, dragons, great fish, whales, and Leviathan. All of these do not refer to one animal, but it is impossible to match the terms with specific marine life. For instance, many animals have been mistaken for sea serpents-- large eels, sharks, and giant squid. The Mediterranean and Red Seas contain whales and enough other such "monsters" to provide plenty of material for sea-related scare tales.\par\par Dragons are mythical creatures that appear in many ancient cultures. The prophet Ezekiel saw images of dragons on the city gates when he was exiled in Babylon. The book of Revelation refers to Satan as "a great, fiery red dragon" ({\cf11\ul Rev 12:3}). However, Ezekiel and the writer of the Psalms also used the word dragon as a synonym for whale. \par\par Whales, of course, were real creatures that may have been a common sight in the Mediterranean Sea during Bible times. The NEB refers to them in ({\cf11\ul Psa_148:7}) as water-spouts, a possible reference to the sperm whale.\par\par ULVALye:N999   @Acacia. A large thorny tree with rough gnarled bark. The orange-brown wood was hard-grained, and it repelled insects. It bore long locust-like pods with seeds inside and produced round, fragrant clusters of yellow blossoms. Many species of acacia grew in the desert of Sinai, in southern Palestine, and in Egypt.\par\par Acacia wood was used to build the ark of the covenant and the first tabernacle ({\cf11 \ul Exo_36:20}; {\cf11 \ul Exo_37:1}). The acacia is called shittim and shittah in the KJV ({\cf11 \ul Exo_25:5}; {\cf11 \ul Exo_25:10}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_41:19}).\par\par \par\par Apple. A tree that grows about 9 meters (30 feet) high and has rough bark and pink blossoms. Many authorities believe the apple of Scripture actually is the apricot, a native of Armenia. Other authorities suggest the quince, peach, citron, orange, or some other fruit; some believe it was the apple.\par\par The apple was described as sweet and fragrant ({\cf11 \ul Son_7:8}); (apricot, NEB), golden ({\cf11 \ul Pro_25:11}), and suitable for shade ({\cf11 \ul Son_2:3}). This fruit was used figuratively to show how precious we are to God, and how extremely sensitive He is to our needs ({\cf11 \ul Deu_32:10}; {\cf11 \ul Psa_17:8}; {\cf11 \ul Lam_2:18}; {\cf11 \ul Zec_2:8}).\par\par \par\par Wormwood. A woody shrub covered with small green leaves, with greenish-yellow flowers growing in clusters. Wormwood grows in the desert regions of Palestine and Syria. This plant is mentioned many times in the Bible. It had a bitter taste and a strong aroma ({\cf11 \ul Jer_9:15}).\par\par Wormwood was used symbolically to refer to any calamity or bitter experience ({\cf11 \ul Deu_29:18}; {\cf11 \ul Pro_5:4}; {\cf11 \ul Amo_5:7}; {\cf11 \ul Rev_8:10-11}). An intoxicating drink could also be made from this plant ({\cf11 \ul Lam_3:15}). Wormwood is sometimes translated as bitter weeds or hemlock ({\cf11 \ul Amo_6:12}), Kjv.\par\par LVAL Cedar. An evergreen tree which sometimes grows more than 30 meters (100 feet) tall with a trunk circumference of 12 to 15 meters (40-50 feet). It grows in western Asia, the Himalayas, and Cyprus as well as Lebanon.\par\par The cedar's fragrant wood was rot-resistant and knot-free, making it ideal for building purposes ({\cf11 \ul 2Sa_5:11}; {\cf11 \ul 1Ki_6:9}), ship building ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:5}), and fashioning idols ({\cf11 \ul Isa_44:14}). The reference to cedar in ({\cf11 \ul Lev_14:4}) and ({\cf11 \ul Num_19:6}) is generally understood to be the juniper which grew in the Sinai. Also see Fir; Pine.\par\par \par\par Almond. A large tree resembling the peach tree in both size and fruit. The almond was chiefly valued for the nuts it produced, which were used for making oil used in the home and as medicine. The Hebrew word for almond means "awakening," an allusion to the almond blossom, which is first to bloom in the spring. The almond's pinkish-white blossoms always appear before its leaves.\par\par The almond played an important role in the history of the Hebrews. Jacob included almond nuts in his gifts to Joseph in Egypt ({\cf11 \ul Gen_43:11}). The decorations on the lampstands were modeled after the almond blossom ({\cf11 \ul Exo_25:33}), and Aaron's rod was an almond twig ({\cf11 \ul Num_17:8}). The almond also symbolized the dependability of God ({\cf11 \ul Jer_1:11-12}). Many scholars think the hazel of ({\cf11 \ul Gen_30:37}) Kjv is the almond tree.\par\par \par\par LVALThistles Thorns. General terms for any spiney plant. Such plants are characteristic of arid and desert regions, Some of these were brambles, briers, thorny bushes, small trees, weeds, and prickly herbs. They grew abundantly in Palestine and other Bible lands, especially along roadsides, in fields, and in dry places.\par\par The most noted use of thorns in the Bible was the crown of thorns placed on the head of Jesus on the cross ({\cf11 \ul Mat_27:29}). This was done by the Romans as a form of mockery.\par\par Some of the thorns and thistles were annuals, scattering their seed in autumn. The industrious farmer would destroy the plants before he seeded ({\cf11 \ul Mat_13:7}). Many of them were used as fuel for ovens ({\cf11 \ul Psa_58:9}; {\cf11 \ul Ecc_7:6}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_33:12}).\par\par Thorny shrubs were used as hedges to guard fields and vineyards ({\cf11 \ul Pro_15:19}; {\cf11 \ul Mar_12:1}). The prophet Micah declared that even the most upright person is "sharper [more destructive] than a thorn hedge" ({\cf11 \ul Mic_7:4}).\par\par LVAL Snake. A snake is the Bible's first-- and final-- animal villain (Genesis 3; {\cf11 \ul Rev_20:2}). Throughout the Old and New Testaments, several different words for snake or serpent appear some 20 times. Scholars can only make educated guesses as to which of Palestine's many species of snakes are meant in most verses.\par The asp and adder are both common in the Holy Land. The asp is a type of cobra with its familiar hood, although its hood is not as pronounced as the Indian cobra's. There is also a desert cobra, which has no hood at all. Adder and viper are two different words for the same deadly snake. A horned viper and sawscale, or carpet viper, are native to Israel. Another species mentioned in the Bible is the sand viper ({\cf11 \ul Isa_30:6}), (NEB).\par In the wilderness, the Israelites were plagued by fiery serpents ({\cf11 \ul Num_21:6}). "Fiery" may indicate the burning fever caused by their bite. Or it may refer to the puff adder, which has yellow, flame-like markings. The cockatrice of the KJV was a mythological monster. It had the wings and head of a cock and the tail of a dragon. According to the superstitious legend about this animal, its look could kill.\par Most snakes in Palestine were non-poisonous, but the Jewish people feared and hated all snakes. In the Bible the serpent is often referred to as the symbol of evil and wrongdoing ({\cf11 \ul Psa_140:3}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_8:17}).\par In spite of this attitude among the Jews, some of Israel's neighbors associated serpents with health, life, and immortality. The kingdom of Lower Egypt took the cobra as its official symbol. Even Moses once lifted up a BRONZE SERPENT before the Israelites at God's command to save the people from the fiery serpents in the wilderness ({\cf11 \ul Num_21:9}). Some continued to worship that bronze serpent until King Hezekiah destroyed it generations later ({\cf11 \ul 2Ki_18:4}).\par Snakes are fascinating creatures. Scales on their undersides provide traction. Their forked tongues flick rapidjLVALvly in and out to collect sensations of touch and smell. ({\cf11 \ul Psa_58:4}) is correct in speaking of the "deaf cobra," since snakes have no ears to receive sound waves. Like deaf persons, they rely on physical vibrations to pick up sounds. Thus cobras are not charmed by music, but by movement.\par A snake's spine may contain as many as 300 tiny vertebrae. This gives them their amazing flexibility to coil and curve. Their mouths are hinged to permit them to swallow and eat creatures much larger than themselves. Their eyes are protected by transparent lids which are always open, causing scientists to wonder if snakes ever sleep.\par LVAL Ant. Approximately 100 species of ants live in the Holy Land. Harvester ants are the ones meant in ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}) and ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}). These tiny insects settle near grain fields, carrying seed after seed into their private storehouses. In cold weather these ants cluster together and hibernate. When winter comes, they have food stored up until the next harvest.\par\par God has provided ants with such amazing instincts that they appear to reason and plan ahead. If stored grain gets wet, they haul it out into the sun to dry. Their hard work was considered a worthy example for human beings by the writer of Proverbs ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}; {\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}).\par\par The Ant\par If you look at the sixth verse of the sixth chapter of Proverbs, you will read, "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise." A sluggard, you know, is a man, or woman, or child, who does not love to read or to do any kind of work, but likes to sleep or be idle all the day long. Do you think you were ever acquainted with one?\par Now see what the Bible tells the sluggard to do. It bids him go to the little ant, and "consider her ways," that is, look on and see what she does. Have you ever watched the ants when they were busy at work? It will give you very pleasant employment for half an hour on a summer's day. In some places you may see small ant-hills scattered about, so close together that you can hardly step without treading on them; and you may find other places where there are not so many, but where the hills are much larger. I have seen them so large that you could hardly step over one of them without touching it with your foot and breaking some part of it. And then how busy the little creatures are! Just kneel down on the grass beside them, and notice how they work! You will see one little fellow creeping along as fast as he can go, with a grain of sand in his mouth, perhaps as large as his head. He does not stop to rest, but when he has carried his grain to help build the hill, aLVALway he goes for another. You may watch them all day and never see them idle at all.\par You see why God tells the sluggard to go and look at the little ants: it is that when he sees them so busy, he may be ashamed of himself for being idle, and learn to be "wise," or diligent in whatever he undertakes. I should not think he could help going to work, after he had looked at them a little while. The ants seem to be very happy, and I think it is because they are so busy. God has put nobody in this world to be idle: even children have something to do. The inside of an ant-hill is very curious, but it is not easy to examine it without destroying all the work that the little insects have taken so much pains to finish. There is a kind of ant in warm climates that builds for itself hills as high as a man. They are not made of sand, but of a kind of clay; and have a great many cells or apartments, and many winding passages leading from one part to another. All this is done, as the Bible says, without "guide, overseer or ruler;" that is, they have no one to direct them how to do it. God gives them skill just as he does to the honey-bees in building the beautiful cells which you have so often admired; all His works are wonderful.\par Taken from "Scripture Alphabet of Animals" by Harriet Cook\parLVAL See also Donkey The Ass\par Perhaps you may have seen the ass, though it is not very common in this country. It has some resemblance to a horse, but is not as large, and generally seems rather sleepy and dull. In some countries, such as those where the Bible was written, it is a fine large animal, and the people use it for riding. Some persons mentioned in the Bible owned a great many asses. Abraham had sheep, and oxen, and asses and camels; and Job had at one time five hundred asses, and afterwards he had a thousand. A great many years ago, long before Christ came into the world, the rich men and the judges used to ride upon asses: so we read in the 10th verse of the 5th chapter of Judges, "Speak, ye that ride upon white asses, ye that sit in judgment." After this time many fine horses were brought into those countries, and the kings and great men liked them for riding: so the ass was used by the poorer people who could not buy a horse. You remember that when our blessed Savior was entering Jerusalem a few days before his death, he rode upon an ass; thus showing his meekness and humility, even while the multitude were shouting his praises, and spreading their garments in the way to do him honor. How shall we be like our Savior, if we let pride stay in our hearts?\par The ass is very gentle and patient, and does not seem angry even when he has a very heavy load to carry. I should be very sorry to have him treated unkindly. Though he seems so dull, he loves his master, and will sometimes find him out and run to him even when he is in a crowd of men. God says, in the Bible, "The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib; but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider." Is it not a sad thing that the dull ass should be more grateful than we are?\par Would it not seem to you very wonderful to hear a dog or a horse speak, so that you could understand what he said? It would be a strange thing indeed-a miracle; but you will find in the 22d chapter of Numbers that an ass once spoke LVAL to his master. The master's name was Balaam. He was a wicked man, and he was riding on an ass to a place where he knew God did not wish him to go. As they were journeying an angel with a drawn sword in his hand stood in the way, but Balaam did not see him. The ass saw him, and was so afraid that she turned aside out of the road, and went into a field; then Balaam was angry and tried to drive her back into the way. They had now come to a path of the vineyards, having a wall on each side, and there the ass saw the bright angel again. In trying to avoid the angel, the ass crushed Balaam's foot against the wall; and he was more angry and struck her again. Then the angel went forward a little distance, and stood where the path was so narrow that it was impossible to pass him. The ass was now so much frightened that she would go no farther, and fell down in the road; and Balaam beat her in a great passion. Then the ass spoke to Balaam and said, "What have I done to thee that thou hast smitten me these three times?" And when Balaam exclaimed, "I wish there were a sword in my hand, for now would I kill thee," she only replied, "Am I not thine ass upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? Was I ever wont to do so unto thee?" Can we not learn, even from the ass, a lesson of meekness and patience?\par The wild ass is often mentioned in the Bible, as in {\cf11 \ul Psa_104:11}. "They (the springs) give drink to every beast of the field; the wild asses quench their thirst." They live in desert places, and go about in great companies with one for their leader. You will find these words about them in the 39th chapter of Job: "Who hath sent out the wild ass free? or who hath loosed the bands of the wild ass? Whose house I have made the wilderness, and the barren land his dwellings. He scorneth the multitude of the city, neither regardeth he the crying of the driver. The range of the mountains is his pasture, and he searcheth after every green thing." Travellers who have seen great herds o:LVALFf wild asses say that the beautiful animal agrees exactly with this fine description, written so many years ago.\par Taken from "Scripture Alphabet of Animals" by Harriet Cook\par LVALSea Gull. Sea gulls are birds about the size of pigeons. They have long wings, which they use to swoop and soar gracefully on air currents. Gulls gather in flocks near bodies of water. They are scavengers who eat garbage as well as fish and insects. Sea gulls are mentioned only in some translations of the Bible. Others translate the Hebrew term as cuckoo, sea mew, or owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:15}).\parScorpion. The scorpion is a small crawling animal that looks like a flat lobster. A member of the spider family, it has eight legs, two sets of pincers, and a tail with a poisonous stinger. A scorpion feeds on spiders and insects, which it rips apart with its claws. It uses its poisonous sting only when threatened or when it attacks large prey. This sting is seldom fatal, but it can be very painful ({\cf11\ul Rev_9:5}).\par During the day, scorpions escape the desert heat by hiding under rocks. They come out at night to hunt and eat. Inhabitants of Bible lands feared scorpions. These animals were an ever-present danger when Moses led the children of Israel through the hot, rocky wilderness ({\cf11\ul Deu_8:15}).\par Jesus' words in ({\cf11\ul Luk_11:12}) about giving a person a scorSea Gull. Sea gulls are birds about the size of pigeons. They have long wings, which they use to swoop and soar gracefully on air currents. Gulls gather in flocks near bodies of water. They are scavengers who eat garbage as well as fish and insects. Sea gulls are mentioned only in some translations of the Bible. Others translate the Hebrew term as cuckoo, sea mew, or owl ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:16}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:15}).\par LVALSponge. The sponge is a plant-like animal that lives on the ocean floor. It absorbs nourishment from water passing through its body. When a sponge is removed from water, the cells die, leaving a skeleton. The skeletons of some sponges are flexible and porous. These have been used for centuries as cleaning and water-absorbing tools. Such a sponge, dipped in sour wine, was offered to Christ on the cross ({\cf11\ul Mat_27:48}; {\cf11\ul Mar_15:36}; {\cf11\ul Joh_19:29}).\parSea Monster. Several terms are used in the Bible to describe large sea creatures: sea monsters or serpents, dragons, great fish, whales, and Leviathan. All of these do not refer to one animal, but it is impossible to match the terms with specific marine life. For instance, many animals have been mistaken for sea serpents-- large eels, sharks, and giant squid. The Mediterranean and Red Seas contain whales and enough other such "monsters" to provide plenty of material for sea-related scare tales.\par Dragons are mythical creatures that appear in many ancient cultures. The prophet Ezekiel saw images of dragonSponge. The sponge is a plant-like animal that lives on the ocean floor. It absorbs nourishment from water passing through its body. When a sponge is removed from water, the cells die, leaving a skeleton. The skeletons of some sponges are flexible and porous. These have been used for centuries as cleaning and water-absorbing tools. Such a sponge, dipped in sour wine, was offered to Christ on the cross ({\cf11\ul Mat_27:48}; {\cf11\ul Mar_15:36}; {\cf11\ul Joh_19:29}).\par?LVALKAnt. Approximately 100 species of ants live in the Holy Land. Harvester ants are the ones meant in ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}) and ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}). These tiny insects settle near grain fields, carrying seed after seed into their private storehouses. In cold weather these ants cluster together and hibernate. When winter comes, they have food stored up until the next harvest.\par\par God has provided ants with such amazing instincts that they appear to reason and plan ahead. If stored grain gets wet, they haul it out into the sun to dry. Their hard work was considered a worthy example for human beings by the writer of Proverbs ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}; {\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}).\par\par The Ant\par If you look at the sixth verse of the sixth chapter of Proverbs, you will read, "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise." A sluggard, you know, is a man, or woman, or child, who does not love to read or to do any kind of work, but likes to sleep or be idle all the day long. Do you think you were ever acquainted with one?\par Now see what the Bible tells the sluggard to do. It bids him go to the little ant, and "consider her ways," that is, look on and see what she does. Have you ever watched the ants when they were busy at work? It will give you very pleasant employment for half an hour on a summer'Ant. Approximately 100 species of ants live in the Holy Land. Harvester ants are the ones meant in ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}) and ({\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}). These tiny insects settle near grain fields, carrying seed after seed into their private storehouses. In cold weather these ants cluster together and hibernate. When winter comes, they have food stored up until the next harvest.\par\par God has provided ants with such amazing instincts that they appear to reason and plan ahead. If stored grain gets wet, they haul it out into the sun to dry. Their hard work was considered a worthy example for human beings by the writer of Proverbs ({\cf11\ul Pro_6:6-8}; {\cf11\ul Pro_30:25}).\par\par LVAL Shepherd who takes care of His sheep ({\cf11\ul Joh_10:1-18}).\par A unique relationship existed between shepherd and sheep. He knew them by name, and they in turn recognized his voice. Sheep were models of submissiveness. Because he demonstrated purity and trustful obedience to the Father, Jesus was also called "the Lamb of God" ({\cf11\ul Joh_1:29}; {\cf11\ul Joh_1:36}).\par Wild sheep, high-spirited and independent, lived among the tall peaks of Palestine's mountains. Like their domesticated cousins, they flocked together, but their disposition more nearly resembled goats. They are referred to as mountain sheep ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}), (NKJV, RSV, NIV, NASB), chamois (KJV), and rock goat (NEB).\par Wild or domestic, the male sheep is called a ram; the female is called a ewe.\par Skink (See Lizard).\par Skink (See Lizard).\par Snail.\par Snail. Snails are small, slow-crawling animals with a soft body protected by a coiled shell. They move with wave-like motions of their single foot, secreting a slime as they go to make their travel easier. The psalmist may have had this peculiar motion in mind when he spoke of the snail "which melts away as it goes" ({\cf11\ul Psa_58:8}).\par The snail in ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:30}) (KJV ) is probably a skink, a type of sand lizard.\par Snake.\par Snake. A snake is the Bible's first-- and final-- animal villain (Genesis 3; {\cf11\ul Rev_20:2}). Throughout the Old and New Testaments, several different words for snake or serpent appear some 20 times. Scholars can only make educated guesses as to which of Palestine's many species of snakes are meant in most verses.\par The asp and adder are both common in the Holy Land. The asp is a type of cobra with its familiar hood, although its hood is not as pronounced as the Indian cobra's. There is also a desert cobra, which has no hood at all. Adder and viper are two different words for the same deadly snake. A horned viper and sawscale, or carpet viper, are native to Israel. Another species mentioned in the Bible is t_LVALk~dJ0z`F,v\B(rX>$ nT: he sand viper ({\cf11\ul Isa_30:6}), (NEB).\par In the wilderness, the Israelites were plagued by fiery serpents ({\cf11\ul Num_21:6}). "Fiery" may indicate the burning fever caused by their bite. Or it may refer to the puff adder, which has yellow, flame-like markings. The cockatrice of the KJV was a mythological monster. It had the wings and head of a cock and the tail of a dragon. According to the superstitious legend about this animal, its look could kill.\par Most snakes in Palestine were non-poisonous, but the Jewish people feared and hated all snakes. In the Bible the serpent is often referred to as the symbol of evil and wrongdoing ({\cf11\ul Psa_140:3}; {\cf11\ul Jer_8:17}).\par In spite of this attitude among the Jews, some of Israel's neighbors associated serpents with health, life, and immortality. The kingdom of Lower Egypt took the cobra as its official symbol. Even Moses once lifted up a BRONZE SERPENT before the Israelites at God's command to save the people from the fiery serpents in the wilderness ({\cf11\ul Num_21:9}). Some continued to worship that bronze serpent until King Hezekiah destroyed it generations later ({\cf11\ul 2Ki_18:4}).\par Snakes are fascinating creatures. Scales on their undersides provide traction. Their forked tongues flick rapidly in and out to collect sensations of touch and smell. ({\cf11\ul Psa_58:4}) is correct in speaking of the "deaf cobra," since snakes have no ears to receive sound waves. Like deaf persons, they rely on physical vibrations to pick up sounds. Thus cobras are not charmed by music, but by movement.\par A snake's spine may contain as many as 300 tiny vertebrae. This gives them their amazing flexibility to coil and curve. Their mouths are hinged to permit them to swallow and eat creatures much larger than themselves. Their eyes are protected by transparent lids which are always open, causing scientists to wonder if snakes ever sleep.\par LVALwNighthawk. Spider. Hundreds of different species of spiders are found in the Holy Land. A spider's skill at spinning threads into a web is one of nature's miracles. The fragile web of a spider is used to demonstrate the folly of placing confidence in something other than the stable, dependable God ({\cf11\ul Job_8:14}).\par Spiders trap their victims in their webs and dissolve them with pre-digestive juices so they can be eaten. Oil on the spider's body keeps it from being entangled in its own web.\par Sparrow. Sparrow is the name given to several different species of birds in the Bible. They ate grain and insects and gathered in noisy flocks. The psalmist wrote, "I... am like a sparrow alone on the housetop" ({\cf11\ul Psa_102:7}). These tiny birds were such social creatures that a lone sparrow was the symbol of deep loneliness.\par Sparrows build their untidy nests in the eaves of houses. Sparrows were not driven away when they built their nests in the Temple ({\cf11\ul Psa_84:3}).\par In Jesus' time sparrows sold for a very low price-- two for a copper coin, five for two copper coins ({\cf11\ul Mat_10:29}; {\cf11\ul Luk_12:6}). Perhaps this was the Temple price, for they were considered a poor man's sacrifice. Those who could not afford to sacrifice a sheep or a goat might bring a sparrow. Moses once directed healed lepers to bring two sparrows to the Temple for a cleansing ceremony ({\cf11\ul Lev_14Spider. Hundreds of different species of spiders are found in the Holy Land. A spider's skill at spinning threads into a web is one of nature's miracles. The fragile web of a spider is used to demonstrate the folly of placing confidence in something other than the stable, dependable God ({\cf11\ul Job_8:14}).\par Spiders trap their victims in their webs and dissolve them with pre-digestive juices so they can be eaten. Oil on the spider's body keeps it from being entangled in its own web.\par LVALSwan. Swans are seen occasionally in Palestine. As vegetarians, they are related to ducks and geese. Alternate translations of the Hebrew term for swan include ibis, stork, white owl, and water hen. These are better translations, since there seems to be no reason why swans would have been considered unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (KJV).\parSwallow. The swallow is a migratory bird quite familiar to residents of the Holy Land. Frequently on the move to warmer climates, swallows gather in huge flocks to travel thousands of miles. A chattering flock can make quite a racket ({\cf11\ul Isa_38:14}). The psalmist makes an interesting distinction between the sparrow, who finds a home, and the swallow, who gets a nest ({\cf11\ul Psa_84:3}). Only a permSwan. Swans are seen occasionally in Palestine. As vegetarians, they are related to ducks and geese. Alternate translations of the Hebrew term for swan include ibis, stork, white owl, and water hen. These are better translations, since there seems to be no reason why swans would have been considered unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (KJV).\parSwallow. The swallow is a migratory bird quite familiar to residents of the Holy Land. Frequently on the move to warmer climates, swallows gather in huge flocks to travel thousands of miles. A chattering flock can make quite a racket ({\cf11\ul Isa_38:14}). The psalmist makes an interesting distinction between the sparrow, who finds a home, and the swallow, who gets a nest ({\cf1Swan. Swans are seen occasionally in Palestine. As vegetarians, they are related to ducks and geese. Alternate translations of the Hebrew term for swan include ibis, stork, white owl, and water hen. These are better translations, since there seems to be no reason why swans would have been considered unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (KJV).\parLVALVGall. A bitter, poisonous herb. This may have been the poppy or some other wild poisonous plant. Gall is used figuratively to mean a bitter punishment ({\cf11 \ul Jer_8:14}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_9:15}; {\cf11 \ul Jer_23:15}) or any bitter experience ({\cf11 \ul Act_8:23}). Gall and vinegar were offered to Jesus on the cross ({\cf11 \ul Mat_27:34}), but He refused the drink.\par\parGalbanum. The gum from an herb which grew one to one and one-half meters (three to five feet) high and had greenish-white flowers. Galbanum was the milky substance extracted from the stems which quickly hardened. It was used in perfume and anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:34}).\par\parFlax. A plant growing one meter (three feet) tall with pale blue flowers, and used for making cloth. When mature, the entire flax plant was pulled and placed in water to separate the fibers from the stems. It was then laid on housetops to dry ({\cf11 \ul Jos_2:6}), and later woven into linen. Flax was also used as wicks for lamps in Bible times ({\cf11 \ul Isa_42:3}). Also see Reed Rush.\par\par \par\par Unicorn. A unicorn is a mythical creature, similar to a horse, with a single spiral horn growing out of its forehead. In the Middle Ages, the unicorn appeared in paintings as a symbol of purity. Many people believed an animal like this really lived. In the Bible, most verses that refer to the unicorn emphasize its great strength ({\cf11\ul Num_23:22}; {\cf11\ul Num_24:8}; {\cf11\ul Deu_33:17}). The biblical writer may have had the aurochs in mind. This horned wild ox was so large and powerful that no one could control or tame it ({\cf11\ul Job_39:9-10}; {\cf11\ul Psa_22:21}; {\cf11\ul Psa_92:10}; {\cf11\ul Isa_34:7}).\par\parTurtle. Both turtles and tortoises (a type often found in Palestine) and their eggs and meat were eaten. In ({\cf11\ul Num_6:10}) and ({\cf11\ul Jer_8:7}) (KJV), turtle is simply an abbreviation of turtledove. The context clearly indicates that a bird is meant, not the silent, slow-moving turtle.\par\par LVALWasp. These overgrown relatives of bees are known for their painful sting. Wasps are common throughout the Holy Land. Hornets are a large species of wasp. So savage were these insects when disturbed that Egyptian soldiers used hornets as a symbol of their military might. When the people of Israel were marching toward the Promised Land, God promised He would send hornets before them to drive the Canaanites out of the land ({\cf11\ul Exo_23:28}). Ancient writers claim that entire tribes were sometimes driven out of a country by wasps or hornets.\parVulture. Vultures are large, loathsome members of the hawk family. The largeWasp. These overgrown relatives of bees are known for their painful sting. Wasps are common throughout the Holy Land. Hornets are a large species of wasp. So savage were these insects when disturbed that Egyptian soldiers used hornets as a symbol of their military might. When the people of Israel were marching toward the Promised Land, God promised He would send hornets before them to drive the Canaanites out of the land ({\cf11\ul Exo_23:28}). Ancient writers claim that entire tribes were sometimes driven out of a country by wasps or hornets.\parVulture. Vultures are large, loathsome members of the hawk family. The largest species have a wingspread of about 32 meters (9 to 10 feet). Most vultures have bare heads and necks. However, the lammergeier (bearded vulture) has dirty-white neck feathers and a tasselWasp. These overgrown relatives of bees are known for their painful sting. Wasps are common throughout the Holy Land. Hornets are a large species of wasp. So savage were these insects when disturbed that Egyptian soldiers used hornets as a symbol of their military might. When the people of Israel were marching toward the Promised Land, God promised He would send hornets before them to drive the Canaanites out of the land ({\cf11\ul Exo_23:28}). Ancient writers claim that entire tribes were sometimes driven out of a country by wasps or hornets.\par LVAL#Fitches. Two different plants mentioned in the KJV\par\par 1. An annual herb one-half meter (one to two feet) tall with finely cut leaves and blue flowers, which produces black poppy seeds used in curries and sprinkled on breads. It is translated black cumin in the NKJV ({\cf11 \ul Isa_28:25}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_28:27}).\par\par 2. A plant apparently mislabeled by the KJV in ({\cf11 \ul Eze_4:9}). The correct identification is spelt. Also see Spelt.\par\par Fig. A fruit-producing plant which could be either a tall tree or a low-spreading shrub. The size of the tree depended on its location and soil. The blooms of the fig tree always appear before the leaves in spring. When Jesus saw leaves on a fig tree, He expected the fruit ({\cf11 \ul Mar_11:12-14}; {\cf11 \ul Mar_11:20-21}). There were usually two crops of figs a year.\par\par Figs were eaten fresh ({\cf11 \ul 2Ki_18:31}), pressed into cakes ({\cf11 \ul 1Sa_25:18}), and used as a poultice ({\cf11 \ul Isa_38:21}). Jeremiah used the fig tree as a symbol of desolation ({\cf11 \ul Jer_8:13}). It also signified security and hope for Adam and Eve ({\cf11 \ul Gen_3:7}), the 12 spies ({\cf11 \ul Num_13:23}), and the poets and prophets.\par\par \par\par Pygarg.\par\par Pygarg. The Hebrew term translated pygarg in ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}) means "leaper." The RSV translates ibex and the NKJV has mountain goat or addax (margin). This animal probably was the white-rumped antelope. Also see Antelope, Goat.\par\par Behemoth. Behemoth could mean elephant, crocodile, hippopotamus, water buffalo, or mythological monster. The word appears in ({\cf11\ul Job_40:15}), where God humbles Job by praising two of His creations, behemoth and Leviathan. Hippopotamus is the best choice for the precise meaning of behemoth. Hippos submerge themselves in rivers and bask in cool marshes. Yet they can climb up riverbanks and hillsides, devouring vegetation. An angered hippo can bite a man in half or crush a canoe with his enormous jaws.\par\par4LVAL >cJEbony. A large tree which produces edible fruit similar to the persimmon. The hard, black wood from the inner portion of the tree is quite valuable and is used for fine furniture. It is also known to have been inlaid with ivory. Idols were sometimes carved from ebony wood.\par\parDove Droppings Dove Dung. A bulbous plant which was edible after being boiled or roasted. Dove's dung was mentioned as food eaten during the siege of Samaria ({\cf11 \ul 2Ki_6:25}). Some believe this was excrement from pigeons and doves, while others interpret it as an edible plant (seed pods, NIV; locust-beans, NEB).\par\par Dove dung was also referred to as the Star of Bethlehem. Syrians are known to have used this plant as food. Also see Locust.\par\par \par\par Cypress. A tall evergreen tree of hard and durable wood. Cypress wood was suitable for building, and was used to fashion idols ({\cf11 \ul Isa_44:14}). The word rendered gopherwood by the NKJV, KJV, RSV, and NASB in ({\cf11 \ul Gen_6:14}) is thought to be cypress. This was the wood which Noah used to build his ark. The word for cypress is also rendered as camelthorn ({\cf11 \ul Isa_55:13}) and ilex ({\cf11 \ul Isa_44:14}) by the NEB.\par\par \par\par Cumin. An annual seed-producing herb with pinkish-white blooms. Cumin is native to the eastern Mediterranean lands. When harvested, cumin was threshed with sticks ({\cf11 \ul Isa_28:25}; {\cf11 \ul Isa_28:27}), a method still used today. Cumin was used to flavor foods, in medicine, and was subject to the tithe ({\cf11 \ul Mat_23:23}).\par\par The NKJV also mentions black cumin, which is translated dill (RSV, NEB, NASB), caraway (NIV), and fitches Kjv.\par\par Beetle. Beetles fly, but they do not leap ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:21}).\par\par Crickets, which are related to locusts, both fly and leap. Some scholars contend that katydid, or locusts, are more likely the correct translations of this one biblical reference to beetles or crickets.\par\par *LVAL0<Badger. Only the skin of badgers is mentioned in the Bible and even this is questionable. ({\cf11\ul Exo_26:14}) and ({\cf11\ul Num_4:6-25}) speak of the coverings for the tent of the tabernacle. The Hebrew word tachash is translated "badger skins." However, no one really knows what the Hebrews meant by this word. Other translators render it as "goatskins" (RSV), "porpoise-hides" (NEB), or "hides of sea cows" (NIV). \par\par Possibly this word did mean badgers. Coarse badger hair would certainly be a protective cushion between the fine fabrics in which the articles of worship were wrapped for travel. The KJV translates the word as "badgers" skins" in ({\cf11\ul Eze_16:10}), which rBadger. Only the skin of badgers is mentioned in the Bible and even this is questionable. ({\cf11\ul Exo_26:14}) and ({\cf11\ul Num_4:6-25}) speak of the coverings for the tent of the tabernacle. The Hebrew word tachash is translated "badger skins." However, no one really knows what the Hebrews meant by this word. Other translators render it as "goatskins" (RSV), "porpoise-hides" (NEB), or "hides of sea cows" (NIV). \par\par Possibly this word did mean badgers. Coarse badger hair would certainly be a protective cushion between the fine fabrics in which the articles of worship were wrapped for travel. The KJV translates the word as "badgers" skins" in ({\cf11\ul Eze_16:10}), which refers to a foot covering. The RSV translates "leather."\par\par Ape. King Solomon brought apes from tropical and semi-tropical regions of the ancient world to Israel. Solomon's zoo probably contained a variety of apes, monkeys, and baboons ({\cf11\ul 1Ki_10:22}; {\cf11\ul 2Ch_9:21}). Some commentators suggest that Isaiah's reference to the "satyrs" who "dance" and "cry to [their] fellow [s]" ({\cf11\ul Isa_13:21}; {\cf11\ul Isa_34:14}), (KJV) would fit the dog-faced baboon honored by the Egyptians. Also see Monkey.\par\parLVAL Sheep. Sheep are mentioned more frequently than any other animal in the Bible-- about 750 times. This is only natural since the Hebrew people were known early in their history as a race of wandering herdsmen. Even in the days of the kings, the simple shepherd's life seemed the ideal calling. The Bible makes many comparisons between the ways of sheep and human beings. In the New Testament the church is often compared to a sheepfold.\par\par Well-suited for Palestine's dry plains, sheep fed on grass, woods, and shrubs. They could get along for long periods without water. Sheep in clusters are easily led, so a single shepherd could watch over a large flock.\par\par Sheep today are bred for white wool. But the sheep of Bible times were probably brown or a mixture of black and white. Modern farmers clip off the tails of sheep for sanitary reasons, but fat tails were prized on biblical sheep. The Hebrews called this "the whole fat tail." When they offered this prized part of the sheep as a burnt offering to God, they burned the "entire fat-tail cut off close by the spine" (Lev_3:9), (NEB).\par\par Sheep were also valuable because they provided meat for the Hebrew diet. Mutton was a nutritious food, and it could be packed away and preserved for winter. And before man learned to spin and weave wool, shepherds wore warm sheepskin jackets.\par\par By nature, sheep are helpless creatures. They depend on shepherds to lead them to water and pasture, to fight off wild beasts, and to anoint their faces with oil when a snake nips them from the grass. Sheep are social animals that gather in flocks, but they tend to wander off and fall into a crevice or get caught in a thorn bush. Then the shepherd must leave the rest of his flock to search for the stray. Jesus used this familiar picture when He described a shepherd who left 99 sheep in the fold to search for one that had wandered off. The God of the Hebrews revealed His nurturing nature by speaking of himself as a shepherd (Psalm 23). Jesus also described HimsLVAL elf as the Good Shepherd who takes care of His sheep ({\cf11\ul Joh_10:1-18}).\par\par A unique relationship existed between shepherd and sheep. He knew them by name, and they in turn recognized his voice. Sheep were models of submissiveness. Because he demonstrated purity and trustful obedience to the Father, Jesus was also called "the Lamb of God" ({\cf11\ul Joh_1:29}; {\cf11\ul Joh_1:36}).\par\par Wild sheep, high-spirited and independent, lived among the tall peaks of Palestine's mountains. Like their domesticated cousins, they flocked together, but their disposition more nearly resembled goats. They are referred to as mountain sheep ({\cf11\ul Deu_14:5}), (NKJV, RSV, NIV, NASB), chamois (KJV), and rock goat (NEB).\par\par Wild or domestic, the male sheep is called a ram; the female is called a ewe.\par\par Skink (See Lizard).\par\par Skink (See Lizard).\par\par Snail.\par\par Snail. Snails are small, slow-crawling animals with a soft body protected by a coiled shell. They move with wave-like motions of their single foot, secreting a slime as they go to make their travel easier. The psalmist may have had this peculiar motion in mind when he spoke of the snail "which melts away as it goes" ({\cf11\ul Psa_58:8}).\par\par The snail in ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:30}) (KJV ) is probably a skink, a type of sand lizard.\par\par Snake.\par\par Snake. A snake is the Bible's first-- and final-- animal villain (Genesis 3; {\cf11\ul Rev_20:2}). Throughout the Old and New Testaments, several different words for snake or serpent appear some 20 times. Scholars can only make educated guesses as to which of Palestine's many species of snakes are meant in most verses.\par\par The asp and adder are both common in the Holy Land. The asp is a type of cobra with its familiar hood, although its hood is not as pronounced as the Indian cobra's. There is also a desert cobra, which has no hood at all. Adder and viper are two different words for the same deadly snake. A horned viper and sawscale, or carpet viper, are n LVALative to Israel. Another species mentioned in the Bible is the sand viper ({\cf11\ul Isa_30:6}), (NEB).\par\par In the wilderness, the Israelites were plagued by fiery serpents ({\cf11\ul Num_21:6}). "Fiery" may indicate the burning fever caused by their bite. Or it may refer to the puff adder, which has yellow, flame-like markings. The cockatrice of the KJV was a mythological monster. It had the wings and head of a cock and the tail of a dragon. According to the superstitious legend about this animal, its look could kill.\par\par Most snakes in Palestine were non-poisonous, but the Jewish people feared and hated all snakes. In the Bible the serpent is often referred to as the symbol of evil and wrongdoing ({\cf11\ul Psa_140:3}; {\cf11\ul Jer_8:17}).\par\par In spite of this attitude among the Jews, some of Israel's neighbors associated serpents with health, life, and immortality. The kingdom of Lower Egypt took the cobra as its official symbol. Even Moses once lifted up a BRONZE SERPENT before the Israelites at God's command to save the people from the fiery serpents in the wilderness ({\cf11\ul Num_21:9}). Some continued to worship that bronze serpent until King Hezekiah destroyed it generations later ({\cf11\ul 2Ki_18:4}).\par\par Snakes are fascinating creatures. Scales on their undersides provide traction. Their forked tongues flick rapidly in and out to collect sensations of touch and smell. ({\cf11\ul Psa_58:4}) is correct in speaking of the "deaf cobra," since snakes have no ears to receive sound waves. Like deaf persons, they rely on physical vibrations to pick up sounds. Thus cobras are not charmed by music, but by movement.\par\par A snake's spine may contain as many as 300 tiny vertebrae. This gives them their amazing flexibility to coil and curve. Their mouths are hinged to permit them to swallow and eat creatures much larger than themselves. Their eyes are protected by transparent lids which are always open, causing scientists to wonder if snakes ever sleep.\par\par \LVALejSpider. Hundreds of different species of spiders are found in the Holy Land. A spider's skill at spinning threads into a web is one of nature's miracles. The fragile web of a spider is used to demonstrate the folly of placing confidence in something other than the stable, dependable God ({\cf11\ul Job_8:14}).\par\par Spiders trap their victims in their webs and dissolve them with pre-digestive juices so they can be eaten. Oil on the spider's body keeps it from being entangled in its own web.\par\par Sparrow. Sparrow is the name given to several different species of birds in the Bible. They ate grain and insects and gathered in noisy flocks. The psalmist wrote, "I... am like a sparrow alone on the housetop" ({\cf11\ul Psa_102:7}). These tiny birds were such social creatures that a lone sparrow was the symbol of deep loneliness.\par\par Sparrows build their untidy nests in the eaves of houses. Sparrows were not driven away when they built their nests in the Temple ({\cf11\ul Psa_84:3}).\par\par In Jesus' time sparrows sold for a very low price-- two for a copper coin, five for two copper coins ({\cf11\ul Mat_10:29}; {\cf11\ul Luk_12:6}). Perhaps this was the Temple price, for they were considered a poor man's sacrifice. Those who could not afford to sacrifice a sheep or a goat might bring a sparrow. Moses once directed healed lepers to bring two sparrows to the Temple for a cleansing ceremony ({\cf11\ul Lev_14:1-7}).\par\par Sometimes it seems that only God cares for sparrows. Cats, hawks, and naughty boys prey upon them. People complain about how they multiply, considering them pests. Yet, Jesus declared, "Not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will" ({\cf11\ul Mat_10:29}). We may not esteem the little sparrow, but the Son of God used it to illustrate our Heavenly Father's watchful care: "You are of more value than many sparrows" ({\cf11\ul Mat_10:31}; {\cf11\ul Luk_12:7}).\par\par :LVAL 'JSwallow. The swallow is a migratory bird quite familiar to residents of the Holy Land. Frequently on the move to warmer climates, swallows gather in huge flocks to travel thousands of miles. A chattering flock can make quite a racket ({\cf11\ul Isa_38:14}). The psalmist makes an interesting distinction between the sparrow, who finds a home, and the swallow, who gets a nest ({\cf11\ul Psa_84:3}). Only a permanent resident needs a home. Some translations render the Hebrew word for swallow as thrush ({\cf11\ul Jer_8:7}), (NIV, NASB) or wryneck ({\cf11\ul Jer_8:7}), (NEB).\par\par Swallows spend most of their time in the air, catching insects on the wing. They are beautiful birds, brightly colored, with forked tails.\par\par Stork. This goose-sized bird looks ungainly in flight, with its legs dangling and its wings slowly flapping. But people in Palestine were always glad to see the storks on their yearly migration from Europe to Africa. Storks had the reputation of bringing good luck. If they were numerous, surely crops would be good. Farmers welcomed storks because they helped their crops by eating insects.\par\par Both black and white storks were often seen in Palestine. White storks nest as high as possible-- often on chimneys. But since houses in the Holy Land had low, flat roofs, they nested instead in the fir trees ({\cf11\ul Psa_104:17}). In spite of their commendable features, storks were considered unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:19}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:18}).\par\par Sponge. The sponge is a plant-like animal that lives on the ocean floor. It absorbs nourishment from water passing through its body. When a sponge is removed from water, the cells die, leaving a skeleton. The skeletons of some sponges are flexible and porous. These have been used for centuries as cleaning and water-absorbing tools. Such a sponge, dipped in sour wine, was offered to Christ on the cross ({\cf11\ul Mat_27:48}; {\cf11\ul Mar_15:36}; {\cf11\ul Joh_19:29}).\par\parLVALZSwine. The Jewish people had nothing to do with pigs, but these animals still received much attention in the Bible. In ({\cf11\ul Psa_80:13}), Israel's enemies were likened to a "boar out of the woods." Vicious wild pigs (boars) ranged throughout Palestine. Owners of vineyards hated them, because they devoured grapes and trampled their vines. Dogs and men alike feared their razor-sharp tusks. In modern times, the boar is the largest game animal in Israel.\par\par Domesticated pigs (swine) were also raised in Palestine-- by Gentiles or unorthodox Jews. Pigs were ceremonially unclean, supposedly because they did not "chew the cud." The symbol of greed and filth, pigs symbolized a person's unredeemed nature ({\cf11\ul 2Pe_2:22}). Jesus told a story of a prodigal son who really hit bottom when he had to take care of hogs and even eat food intended for them ({\cf11\ul Luk_15:15-16}).\par\par Swift. The swift is a small migratory bird often confused with the swallow. Although they are similar, the two birds come from different families. Swifts are strong fliers that can travel short distances at over 100 m. p. h. They spend much of their time feeding on airborne insects.\par\par The prophet Jeremiah must have known the migrating habits of the swift. He spoke of this bird and others that "observe the time of their coming." Unlike these birds, he observed, the rebellious people of the nation of Judah "do not know the judgment of the Lord" ({\cf11\ul Jer_8:7}).\par\par Swan. Swans are seen occasionally in Palestine. As vegetarians, they are related to ducks and geese. Alternate translations of the Hebrew term for swan include ibis, stork, white owl, and water hen. These are better translations, since there seems to be no reason why swans would have been considered unclean ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}), (KJV).\par\parLVALWeasel. These animals live in almost every country, including Palestine. They are small and furry, with thin, long bodies and short legs. Weasels eat small animals and have a reputation for stealing eggs. The Bible mentions them only in ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:29}), in the list of unclean animals. Some modern sources believe the mole (NASB) or mole-rat (NEB) was meant in this verse.\par\parWasp. These overgrown relatives of bees are known for their painful sting. Wasps are common throughout the Holy Land. Hornets are a large species of wasp. So savage were these insects when disturbed that Egyptian soldiers used hornets as a symbol of their military might. When the people of Israel were marching toward the Promised Land, God promised He would send hornets before them to drive the Canaanites out of the land ({\cf11\ul Exo_23:28}). Ancient writers claim that entire tribes were sometimes driven out of a country by wasps or hornets.\par\parVulture. Vultures are large, loathsome members of the hawk family. The largest species have a wingspread of about 32 meters (9 to 10 feet). Most vultures have bare heads and necks. However, the lammergeier (bearded vulture) has dirty-white neck feathers and a tassel of dark feathers hanging from its beak. The Egyptian vulture likewise has neck feathers. A griffon's long neck is covered with fine white down.\par\par The lammergeier is also called the ossifrage (see ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:13}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:12}) or the gier eagle ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:18}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:17}). \par\par Vultures feed on dead bodies. For this reason they were considered UNCLEAN animals by the Jewish people ({\cf11\ul Lev_11:13}; {\cf11\ul Deu_14:12-13}). Other versions of the Bible translate the word as buzzard, falcon, and bustard.\par\par lLVALĶCitron. A fragrant wood from the sandarac tree. Citron is sometimes referred to as "sweet" or "scented" wood. The sandarac tree grew to a height of no more than about 9 meters (30 feet) tall. Citron is translated as thyme by the KJV ({\cf11 \ul Rev_18:12}).\par\parChestnut. A tree of Syria and Lebanon thought by many scholars to be the plane tree. It grew to a Onion. A plant with a large, edible bulb. The onion is mentioned only once in the Bible, as one of the foods the Hebrews longed for in the wilderness ({\cf11 \ul Num_11:5}). The onion was known in Egypt from ancient times. Drawings of the onion have been found on Egyptian tombs.\par\par \par\par Citron. A fragrant wood from the sandarac tree. Citron is sometimes referred to as "sweet" or "scented" wood. The sandarac tree grew to a height of no more than about 9 meters (30 feet) tall. Citron is translated as thyme by the KJV ({\cf11 \ul Rev_18:12}).\par\parChestnut. A tree of Syria and Lebanon thought by many scholars to be the plane tree. It grew to a height of about 21 to 27 meters (70-90 feet) and had a massive trunk. This tree is translated chestnut in the NKJV and KJV, but is translated plane by the RSV, NIV, NEB, and NASB.\par\parWolf. Wolves were a menace to the sheep farmers of Palestine. Man's first dogs were probably tamed wolf pups. Perhaps this kinship enabled wolves to lurk near sheepfolds and gain their reputation for treachery.\par\par Of his youngest son, the patriarch Jacob said: "Benjamin is a ravenous wolf" ({\cf11\ul Gen_49:27}). The Hebrew word translated ravenous means "to rip and tear," indicating the bloodthirsty nature of the wolf. Wolves seem particularly cruel because they seek out the weak, old, and defenseless as victims. The flow of blood incites them to rip and tear even more with their powerful jaws.\par\par In many Bible references, wolves represent ruthless enemies. Jesus warned of false prophets "who come... in sheep's clothing, but inwardly... are ravenous wolves" ({\cf11\ul Mat_7:15}).\par\par hLVALvCassia. A plant with a flavor and aroma similar to cinnamon, but considered inferior. Some believe it could be the Indian perfume, orris. Moses included cassia in the anointing oil ({\cf11 \ul Exo_30:24}). It was also an article of trade ({\cf11 \ul Eze_27:19}).\par\parWorm. Worms have no backbone, legs, or eyes, although their bodies are sensitive to light and temperature. But they do play a useful role. They improve the soil by working decaying vegetation into the earth and aerating it with their tunnels.\par\par The Bible speaks both literally and figuratively of worms. The word worm also refers to a worm-like creature, such as insect larva. For instance, the palmerworm, cankerworm, and caterpillar of ({\cf11\ul Joe_1:4}) are all caterpillars, which is the larval stage of various moths. (The NKJV, however, translates these as various kinds of locusts.) Grub is another word used for worm in various translations ({\cf11\ul Isa_51:8}), (NEB, NASB). ({\cf11\ul Job_7:5}) and other passages, which refer to infestation of worms, probably mean maggots, the larvae of flies. Decaying matter often teems with tiny worm-like maggots.\par\par Some worms, such as tapeworms and pinworms, are parasites which invade the human body. Thus Herod could be described as "eaten by worms" ({\cf11\ul Act_12:23}).\par\par The common earthworm also appears in the Bible. ({\cf11\ul Mic_7:17}) refers to worms (snakes, NKJV) coming out of their holes. Perhaps it was an earthworm also that God appointed to strike at the root of Jonah's shade ({\cf11\ul Jon_4:7}). The psalmist lamented: "I am a worm... and despised" ({\cf11\ul Psa_22:6}). Job claimed kinship with the lowly worm ({\cf11\ul Job_17:14}). ({\cf11\ul Isa_41:14}) uses "you worm Jacob" as a metaphor of weakness. The Jews associated worms and fire with the place reserved for the ungodly dead {\cf11\ul Isa_66:24}; {\cf11\ul Mar_9:44}; {\cf11\ul Mar_9:48}.\par\par