עֵז

a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)

Definition

The Hebrew noun עֵז (ʻêz) primarily refers to a female goat, or she-goat. It is a common term for this domesticated animal, often used in lists of livestock, such as in Genesis 15:9 where Abram is instructed to bring a heifer, a she-goat, and a ram. The plural form, עִזִּים (ʻizzîm), is masculine and can refer to goats in general, both male and female. This plural form is also used elliptically to mean 'goat's hair,' a material used for making tents (Exodus 26:7, 35:26). The word conveys a sense of strength and vigor, as seen in its etymological connection to the root for 'to be strong.'

Biblical Usage

The word appears 74 times in the Old Testament, most frequently in the Pentateuch (especially Genesis and Leviticus) and in the historical and prophetic books. It is used in practical contexts of animal husbandry, sacrifice, and property. For example, it describes Jacob's speckled and spotted goats as part of his wages (Genesis 30:32-35), and it is listed among the clean animals suitable for sacrifice (Leviticus 4:23). The plural form is used for goat's hair in the construction of the tabernacle. It also appears in metaphorical or proverbial contexts, such as in Proverbs 27:26-27 comparing the value of flocks and herds.

Etymology

The noun עֵז derives from the root עָזַז (ʻāzaz, H5810), meaning 'to be strong' or 'to be fierce.' This connection highlights the perceived strength and vigor of the goat, an animal known for its hardiness in the rugged terrain of the ancient Near East. The word is a primary noun, and its semantic range is straightforward, centered on the animal itself and its byproducts.

Semantic Range

While primarily a common animal term, the she-goat holds theological significance in the sacrificial system. As a clean animal, it was prescribed for various sin and guilt offerings (e.g., Leviticus 4:23-28, 5:6), pointing to the need for atonement. Its use in the ritual of the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:5-10) is particularly profound, where one goat is sacrificed and another bears the sins of the people away—a powerful symbol of substitutionary atonement and removal of guilt that foreshadows the work of Christ.

In ancient Israelite culture, goats were a vital economic asset, providing milk, meat, hair, and skins. They were hardy animals well-suited to the Palestinian landscape. Ownership of goats signified wealth and sustenance. The distinction between a she-goat (עֵז) and a male goat (תָּיִשׁ, tāyish, H8495) was important for breeding and specific ritual requirements. Goat's hair was a common, durable material for weaving the black tents used by nomads and for parts of the tabernacle, indicating its practical, everyday importance.

תָּיִשׁ (tāyish, H8495) — specifically a male goat or buck. שָׂעִיר (śāʻîr, H8163) — a hairy one, often a he-goat; used frequently for the 'scapegoat' (Azazel) and in idolatrous contexts (e.g., 'goat demons').

Word Details

Scripture References