קִפֹּד
qip.pod
porcupine
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word "קִפֹּד" (qip.pod) is derived from Strong's number H7090. Its short definition indicates that the primary meaning of this word is "porcupine." This unique animal is likely being mentioned in the Bible due to its distinctive physical characteristics, which may serve as a metaphor or illustration in specific contexts. The word "קִפֹּד" appears three times in the Bible, suggesting its significance is limited to these few instances. Given its relatively rare occurrence, it's likely being used to convey a specific point or comparison rather than provide a general description of an animal. To fully understand the meaning and significance of this word, it's essential to examine its context in each of these biblical instances. In general terms, the mention of a porcupine in the Bible may relate to physical or metaphorical protection, caution, or even danger. Without examining the full context of the three instances where "קִפֹּד" appears, it's challenging to elaborate on its specific significance.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
3 total occurrences across the text
“I will also make it a possession for the porcupine, and pools of water. I will sweep it with the broom of destruction,” says Yahweh of Armies.
Isaiah 34:11But 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.
Zephaniah 2:14Herds will lie down in the middle of her, all the animals of the nations. Both the pelican and the porcupine will lodge in its capitals. Their calls will echo through the windows. Desolation will be in the thresholds, for he has laid bare the cedar beams.