What the study found
The article argues that owl references in the Bible are elusive and often uncertain, even at the level of which Hebrew terms should be translated as “owl.” It focuses on passages in Leviticus, Deuteronomy, Psalms, Isaiah, and Zephaniah, and on what owls may have symbolized in the ancient world.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest that considering owl symbolism may help readers better understand biblical texts. They also say that insights from Critical Animal Studies and the long history of human-owl interactions can deepen understanding of these passages.
What the researchers tested
This is a textual and interpretive study of biblical passages where owls are said to appear: Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14, Psalm 102:7, Isaiah 13 and 34, and Zephaniah 2. The article also considers cultural symbolism and draws on fields associated with Critical Animal Studies.
What worked and what didn't
The article says owl references appear in food laws, a psalm, and prophetic oracles against the nations. It also says the meaning of the relevant terms is debated and uncertain, which limits confidence about exactly where and how owls are referenced.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not give the article's detailed conclusions beyond the general claim that owl imagery is elusive and worth examining. It also does not provide a full account of the specific symbolic meanings that are discussed, only that the study explores them.
Key points
- Owl references in the Bible are described as elusive and often uncertain.
- The article identifies owl-related passages in Leviticus, Deuteronomy, Psalms, Isaiah, and Zephaniah.
- The meaning of the terms translated as “owl” is said to be debated.
- The study considers owl symbolism in the biblical world.
- The authors say Critical Animal Studies may offer added insight into these texts.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Isaiah’s owl passages are examined for cultural symbolism
- Authors:
- Phillip Michael Sherman
- Institutions:
- Maryville College
- Publication date:
- 2026-02-08
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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