Tortoise
Natureâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The Hebrew word tsabh, translated as 'tortoise' in the King James Version of Leviticus 11:29, likely refers to a species of lizard or small reptile native to the region, reflecting ancient taxonomic classifications rather than modern biological definitions.
What is the meaning of Tortoise in the Bible?
The Hebrew word tsabh, translated as 'tortoise' in the King James Version of Leviticus 11:29, likely refers to a species of lizard or small reptile native to the region, reflecting ancient taxonomic classifications rather than modern biological definitions.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the biological context of tsabh clarifies the dietary laws in Leviticus, showing that the prohibition targeted specific local reptiles considered unclean, rather than the large shelled tortoises known today.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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- What cultural or historical assumption does Tortoise 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.