Topical Encyclopedia
The rock-badger, also known as the hyrax or coney, is a small, herbivorous mammal mentioned in the Bible. It is noted for its unique characteristics and behaviors, which have theological and symbolic significance in the biblical text. The rock-badger is referenced in several passages, primarily in the context of dietary laws and wisdom literature.
Biblical References:1.
Leviticus 11:5 : "The rock badger, though it chews the cud, does not have a split hoof; it is unclean for you." In this passage, the rock-badger is listed among the animals considered unclean for the Israelites to eat. The classification is based on the animal's physical characteristics, specifically its lack of a split hoof, despite its cud-chewing behavior. This distinction underscores the importance of adhering to God's commandments regarding dietary laws, which were given to set the Israelites apart as a holy people.
2.
Deuteronomy 14:7 : "But of those that chew the cud or have split hooves, you are not to eat the following: the camel, the rabbit, and the rock badger." Here, the rock-badger is again mentioned in the context of dietary restrictions. The repetition of these laws in Deuteronomy serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing obedience and purity.
3.
Psalm 104:18 : "The high mountains are for the wild goats, the cliffs a refuge for the rock badgers." This verse highlights the rock-badger's natural habitat, which is typically rocky and mountainous regions. The rock-badger's ability to find refuge in the cliffs is emblematic of God's provision and protection for His creation. It serves as a metaphor for the security and safety found in God's care.
4.
Proverbs 30:26 : "the rock badgers are creatures of little power, yet they make their home in the rocks." In this passage, the rock-badger is used as an example of wisdom and prudence. Despite their small size and apparent vulnerability, rock-badgers exhibit foresight by dwelling in the safety of the rocks. This imagery encourages believers to seek refuge in the Lord, who is often depicted as a rock and fortress in Scripture.
Symbolism and Lessons:The rock-badger, though seemingly insignificant, carries profound lessons for the faithful. Its inclusion in the dietary laws serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands. The rock-badger's choice of habitat illustrates the wisdom of seeking security in the Lord, who provides refuge and strength. In the wisdom literature, the rock-badger exemplifies the virtue of prudence, teaching believers to rely on God's protection and to make wise choices in life.
In summary, the rock-badger is a small but significant creature within the biblical narrative, offering insights into God's laws, His provision, and the wisdom of seeking refuge in Him.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ROCK-BADGERr.-baj'-er: This term is found in the Revised Version margin for "coney," shaphan (Leviticus 11:5; compareDeuteronomy 14:7Psalm 104:18Proverbs 30:26). It is a translation of klip das, the name given. by the Boers to the Cape hyrax or coney.
SeeCONEY.
Thesaurus
Rockbadger... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ROCK-
BADGER. r.-baj'-er: This term is found
in the Revised Version margin for "coney," shaphan (Leviticus
...Rock-badger (2 Occurrences)
Rock-badger.Rockbadger,Rock-badger. Rock-badgers . Int. Standard Bible
Encyclopedia... (See JPS DBY).Rockbadger,Rock-badger. Rock-badgers . Reference
Shaphan (26 Occurrences)
... sha'-fan (shaphan, "rockbadger," English Versions of the Bible "coney"; Saphphan):
An... hoof cloven: the camel, and the hare, and therock-badger, because they...
Badger (9 Occurrences)
... Alfred Ely-Day. Multi-Version Concordance Badger (9 Occurrences). Leviticus 11:5
And therock-badger, for the same reason, is unclean to you. (BBE DBY JPS RSV)....
Hoofs (18 Occurrences)
... Leviticus 11:5 and therock-badger, for it cheweth the cud, but hath not
cloven hoofs it shall be unclean unto you; (DBY). Leviticus...
Totemism
... But the attempt to connect such personal names as Shaphan ("rock-badger"), Achbor
("mouse"), Huldah ("weasel")-all from the time of Josiah (2 Kings 22:3, 12, 14...
Rock-badgers (2 Occurrences)
Rock-badgers.Rock-badger, Rock-badgers. Rocked . Multi-Version Concordance
Rock-badgers (2 Occurrences)....Rock-badger, Rock-badgers. Rocked . Reference...
Cud (9 Occurrences)
... chamois. Several of the forbidden animals are expressly named in the passages,
eg the camel, therock-badger, the hare and the swine....
Chew (5 Occurrences)
... chamois. Several of the forbidden animals are expressly named in the passages,
eg the camel, therock-badger, the hare and the swine....
Coney (2 Occurrences)
... In Leviticus 11:5 the Revised Version, margin, we find "rockbadger," which is a
translation of klip das, the rather inappropriate name given by the Boers to...
Resources
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