Animal, Plant and Topographical terminology in Hebrew Bible

Understanding Animal Terminology in Biblical Hebrew

Biblical Hebrew uses specific terms for animals, many of which have symbolic meaning.
For instance, כֶּ֫לֶב kelev (dog) is used to signify a contemptible person, whilst אַרְיֵה aryeh (lion) often symbolises power and courage.
It’s crucial to be familiar with animals’ names in Hebrew like צֹאן Tz’one (flock/sheep), פָּרָה parah (cow), דָּג dag (fish), and יוֹנָה yonah (dove).

Recognising Plant Terminology in Biblical Hebrew

Similar to animals, many plants and trees in the Hebrew Bible hold specific connotations.
The term תַּמָּר tamar (palm tree) is associated with righteousness, while the תְּאֵנָּה te’enah (fig tree) represents prosperity.
Familiarise yourself with common words for plants and trees in Hebrew such as חִטָּה chittah (wheat), עֵץ etz (tree), שְׂעוֹרָה s’orah (barley) and גֶּפֶן gefen (vine).

Understanding Topographical Terms in Biblical Hebrew

In the Hebrew Bible, specific terms describe different aspects of the landscape.
For instance, נָהָר nahar refers to a river, whereas יָם yam refers to the sea.
Familiarisation with geographical terms in Hebrew such as הַר har (mountain), אֵיל ayil (hill), שָׁמַיִם shamayim (sky/heavens), אֶרֶץ ‘erets (land/earth), and מָקוֹם maqom (place) is key to good comprehension.
Additionally, the Bible often uses these terms metaphorically. For example, mountains can symbolise obstacles or challenges to overcome.

Practical Applications and Exercises

Engage with the biblical texts, looking for these terms in context to understand their usage and connotations.
Try to write some short paragraphs or sentences using these words.
Review and revise regularly your list of animal, plant and topographical terminology to achieve proficiency.