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Deuteronomy 14:16 - Unkosher birds' mysterious symbolism?

Deuteronomy 14:16 - דברים 14:16

Hebrew Text

אֶת־הַכּוֹס וְאֶת־הַיַּנְשׁוּף וְהַתִּנְשָׁמֶת׃

English Translation

the little owl, and the long eared owl, and the barn screech owl,

Transliteration

Et-hakos ve'et-hayanshuf vehatinshamet.

Hebrew Leining Text

אֶת־הַכּ֥וֹס וְאֶת־הַיַּנְשׁ֖וּף וְהַתִּנְשָֽׁמֶת׃
אֶת־הַכּ֥וֹס וְאֶת־הַיַּנְשׁ֖וּף וְהַתִּנְשָֽׁמֶת׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Identification of the Birds in the Verse

The verse lists three types of birds: כּוֹס (kos), יַנְשׁוּף (yanshuf), and תִּנְשָׁמֶת (tinshemet). These are identified as non-kosher birds in Vayikra 11:17-18 and Devarim 14:16-17, where they are prohibited for consumption. Rashi (on Vayikra 11:17) explains that these are nocturnal birds of prey, characterized by their predatory nature.

Interpretations of the Names

  • כּוֹס (kos): Rashi identifies this as the "little owl," a bird known for its sharp vision at night. The Talmud (Chullin 63a) associates it with a bird that cries "kos, kos," giving it its name.
  • יַנְשׁוּף (yanshuf): Rashi and the Talmud (Chullin 63a) describe this as the "long-eared owl," named for its tufted feathers resembling ears. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 22:10) notes its tendency to dwell in ruins.
  • תִּנְשָׁ�ֶת (tinshemet): Rashi explains this as the "barn screech owl," a bird that makes a hissing sound. The Talmud (Chullin 63a) debates whether it refers to a bird or a type of bat, but the consensus follows Rashi's avian interpretation.

Spiritual and Halachic Significance

The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot 1:15-16) teaches that birds of prey are prohibited due to their cruel nature, which can negatively influence those who consume them. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 156) adds that avoiding such birds helps refine a person's character by distancing them from predatory traits.

Symbolism in Midrashic Literature

The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 22:10) connects these birds to spiritual impurity, as they thrive in desolate places. Their inclusion in the list of non-kosher birds serves as a reminder to avoid environments and behaviors associated with moral decay.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Chullin 63a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the kosher status of various birds, including the owl species mentioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the Torah list specific birds like the little owl and barn owl in Deuteronomy 14:16?
A: The Torah lists these birds among the non-kosher species to teach us which birds are forbidden to eat according to Jewish dietary laws (kashrut). The Talmud (Chullin 63a) explains that these birds exhibit predatory traits, and the Torah prohibits them as part of its guidance for maintaining spiritual purity.
Q: What is the significance of the owl being mentioned in the Torah?
A: Owls are mentioned as non-kosher birds to emphasize the Torah's distinction between permitted and forbidden animals. Rashi (on Deuteronomy 14:16) notes that these birds are predatory, and their inclusion in the list reinforces the idea that Jews must be selective in their diet to uphold holiness.
Q: How do we know which birds are kosher today based on this verse?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 59a-65a) provides signs to identify kosher birds, such as not being predatory and having certain physical traits. Since the exact identities of some biblical birds are unclear, Jewish tradition relies on a mesorah (transmitted tradition) to determine which birds are permitted. The verse in Deuteronomy 14:16 helps establish the principle that only certain birds may be eaten.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the Torah's prohibition of owls and other non-kosher birds?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot 1:11) teaches that non-kosher birds have negative spiritual influences. By avoiding them, we refine our character and align ourselves with holiness. The Torah's detailed laws remind us that even our food choices impact our spiritual growth.