Colt; Foal
Natureâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
In biblical Hebrew, the term for a young donkey is distinct from that of a young camel, though English translations often render both as 'colt' or 'foal'. Genesis 32:15 specifically identifies camels as 'colts', while the triumphal entry narratives in the Gospels refer to a young donkey, highlighting a translation nuance between the source languages.
What is the meaning of Colt; Foal in the Bible?
In biblical Hebrew, the term for a young donkey is distinct from that of a young camel, though English translations often render both as 'colt' or 'foal'. Genesis 32:15 specifically identifies camels as 'colts', while the triumphal entry narratives in the Gospels refer to a young donkey, highlighting a translation nuance between the source languages.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the specific animal species referenced in these passages prevents confusion between camels and donkeys, allowing for a more accurate reconstruction of the historical setting and the symbolic significance of the triumphal entry.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Colt; Foal in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Colt; Foal clarify?
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.