דְּכַר

# Biblical Hebrew Lexicon: דְּכַר (dekhar) The Hebrew word *dekhar* refers specifically to a **ram**—an adult male sheep. Based on its three biblical occurrences, this term represents a distinct animal category in ancient Israelite terminology, differentiated from other ovine animals by its masculine gender and maturity. The limited frequency of this word (only three uses in the entire Hebrew Bible) suggests it was either a specialized or less commonly referenced term compared to more general sheep vocabulary. Its sparse usage indicates that while rams held significance in biblical society—likely for breeding purposes, wool production, and religious sacrifice—the biblical writers did not require frequent reference to this particular animal category. Without access to the specific biblical passages where *dekhar* appears, we cannot determine whether the word carries consistent usage patterns or develops particular theological associations. The minimal textual evidence available means this term likely served a descriptive, zoological function rather than carrying symbolic or metaphorical weight in biblical discourse.