יַנְשׁוּף (yan.shuph)
yan.shuph
owl
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word yanshup refers to a specific type of owl, likely the great or eared owl, known for its harsh and strident call. In the biblical context, it is classified as an unclean animal, meaning it was forbidden for consumption under the dietary laws given to Israel. This classification appears in Leviticus 11:17, where it is listed alongside other birds that do not fit the criteria for clean fowl.
The term also surfaces in prophetic literature, such as Isaiah 34:14 and Deuteronomy 14:16, often evoking images of desolation. In these passages, the presence of yanshup signals a place abandoned by humans and returned to wild, untamed nature. The bird’s nocturnal habits and eerie cry made it a fitting symbol for judgment and ruin, reinforcing the idea that such lands were no longer fit for human habitation or worship.
Though mentioned only three times in Scripture, yanshup carries significant symbolic weight. Its association with uncleanness and desolation highlights the biblical theme of separation between the sacred and the profane. Translators typically render it as "owl," though this may not fully capture its cultural resonance in ancient Israelite thought.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word yanshup appears in Scripture to describe an owl, specifically one associated with unclean status under Israel’s dietary laws. In Leviticus and Deuteronomy, it is listed among birds that the people were not to eat. This classification was not about the bird’s character but about setting apart a community distinct from surrounding nations. For us today, these details remind us that God cares about the small, practical aspects of life, guiding His people toward holiness in everyday choices.
In prophetic texts like Isaiah, the owl becomes a symbol of desolation. Its presence in ruined cities signals abandonment and judgment, a stark contrast to the flourishing land God intended. This imagery helps us understand the seriousness of turning away from God, yet it also points to His sovereignty over all creation. Even in scenes of ruin, we see that God remains in control, using nature to convey profound spiritual truths.
Reflecting on yanshup invites us to consider how God uses the natural world to teach us about purity, judgment, and restoration. It challenges us to live with intentionality, honoring God in our habits and trusting Him when circumstances feel empty or broken. May we find comfort in knowing that God’s word is precise and purposeful, guiding us toward a life that reflects His glory.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ great owl2×
- and/ great owl1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יַנְשׁ֥וֹף1×
- הַ/יַּנְשֽׁוּף\׃1×
- הַ/יַּנְשׁ֖וּף1×
Key Verses
-
Leviticus 11:17
the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl,
This verse lists the owl among unclean birds, establishing its role in Israel’s dietary laws as a symbol of separation.
-
Deuteronomy 14:16
the little owl, the great owl, the horned owl,
Here the owl is reiterated in the context of clean and unclean animals, reinforcing the boundary between sacred and profane practices.
-
Isaiah 34:11
But the pelican and the porcupine will possess it. The owl and the raven will dwell in it. He will stretch the line of confusion over it, and the plumb line of emptiness.
The owl’s dwelling in a desolate land serves as a vivid image of judgment and abandonment, highlighting the consequences of rebellion against God.