שַׁ֫חַף (sha.chaph)
sha.chaph
gull
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word shaḥaph refers to a specific type of bird listed among the unclean creatures in Leviticus 11:16 and Deuteronomy 14:15. Translators typically render it as "gull," "seagull," or "sea-mew," though some sources suggest it might also identify a cuckoo or even an extinct species whose exact identity is now lost to history.
Its primary significance lies in its classification within the dietary laws given to Israel. By placing this bird in the category of animals that may not be eaten, the text sets clear boundaries for ritual purity. The ambiguity surrounding its precise zoological identity does not diminish its function in the biblical text; it serves as a concrete example of a creature deemed unfit for consumption under the Mosaic covenant.
With only two occurrences in Scripture, shaḥaph appears exclusively in these legal passages. Its presence highlights the detailed nature of ancient Israelite dietary restrictions, which included various birds associated with scavenging or coastal environments. The word underscores the distinction between clean and unclean animals without requiring modern scientific certainty about the bird's exact species.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word shaḥaph appears in the Old Testament laws regarding clean and unclean animals. It refers to a bird, likely a gull or sea-mew, that Israelites were not permitted to eat. These dietary rules were given to help the people of Israel live as a holy nation, set apart from their neighbors.
For modern readers, these specific details about birds may seem distant. However, they remind us that God cares about the daily habits of His people. The distinction between clean and unclean was not just about food; it was a constant reminder to live with reverence and obedience in every part of life.
While Christians are not bound by these ancient dietary restrictions, the principle remains. We are called to honor God with our bodies and our choices. This word invites us to consider how our everyday actions can reflect a heart that seeks to please God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ gull2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/שָּׁ֑חַף2×
Key Verses
-
Leviticus 11:16
the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk,
This verse lists the shaḥaph among other birds prohibited for consumption, establishing it as a clear example of an unclean creature in the Mosaic law.
-
Deuteronomy 14:15
the ostrich, the owl, the seagull, the hawk of any kind,
Here the word is repeated to reinforce the dietary boundaries, ensuring the people remember which birds are unfit for their table.