Tag Archives: Bible

Bible Birds – Wood Storks

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Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee

While we were on the same birdwatching trip to Circle B (American Bittern), we encountered a Wood Stork. There are five verses in the Bible that mention the Stork:

And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Leviticus 11:19 KJV)

And the stork, and the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Deuteronomy 14:18 KJV)

Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. (Psalms 104:17 KJV)

Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD. (Jeremiah 8:7 KJV)

Then lifted I up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came out two women, and the wind was in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork: and they lifted up the ephah between the earth and the heaven. (Zechariah 5:9 KJV)

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee Landing

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee Landing

While we were birdwatching at Circle B just before Christmas, a Wood Stork flew over and landed in a tree a good way from us. Thanks to the zoom on my camera, I was able to capture its picture. They amaze me that they are “ugly” up close, but when they fly, they are so beautiful and graceful to watch. We see them quite often here and I have been known to feed them at Lake Morton. They also fly over our house and land in our community pond.

Lee feeding Wood Stork at Lake Morton by Dan

Lee feeding Wood Stork at Lake Morton by Dan 2011

As mentioned above, Storks are birds in the Bible and are members of the Ciconiidae – Storks Family. Currently there are 19 Storks in this family. The Bible does not tell which one is being mentioned, but most like one of the Storks that lived in Israel.

Our Wood Stork here is a broad-winged soaring bird that flies with its neck outstretched and legs extended. It forages usually where lowering water levels concentrate fish in open wetlands; it also frequents paddy fields. Walking slowly and steadily in shallow water up to its belly, it seeks prey, which, like that of most of its relatives, consists of fish, frogs and large insects. It catches fish by holding its bill open in the water until a fish is detected. (Wikipedia)

“Tall and long-legged, the wood stork is the largest wading bird native to America. It is white with black flight feathers, distinctive because of its dark, featherless head (down to the upper neck) and thick, down-curved bill. Wood storks fly with neck and legs extended, interrupting strong wing beats with brief glides; their wingspan is 5 1/2 feet.” (FL FWCC) Their length is 33.5–45.3 in (85–115 cm) and weigh between72.3 to 93.1 oz (2050–2640 g). (NatGeo)

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Birds of the Bible – Wood Storks

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Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee

While we were on the same birdwatching trip to Circle B (American Bittern), we encountered a Wood Stork. There are five verses in the Bible that mention the Stork:

And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Leviticus 11:19 KJV)

And the stork, and the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Deuteronomy 14:18 KJV)

Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. (Psalms 104:17 KJV)

Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD. (Jeremiah 8:7 KJV)

Then lifted I up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came out two women, and the wind was in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork: and they lifted up the ephah between the earth and the heaven. (Zechariah 5:9 KJV)

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee Landing

Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) by Lee Landing

While we were birdwatching at Circle B just before Christmas, a Wood Stork flew over and landed in a tree a good way from us. Thanks to the zoom on my camera, I was able to capture its picture. They amaze me that they are “ugly” up close, but when they fly, they are so beautiful and graceful to watch. We see them quite often here and I have been known to feed them at Lake Morton. They also fly over our house and land in our community pond.

Lee feeding Wood Stork at Lake Morton by Dan

Lee feeding Wood Stork at Lake Morton by Dan 2011

As mentioned above, Storks are birds in the Bible and are members of the Ciconiidae – Storks Family. Currently there are 19 Storks in this family. The Bible does not tell which one is being mentioned, but most like one of the Storks that lived in Israel.

Our Wood Stork here is a broad-winged soaring bird that flies with its neck outstretched and legs extended. It forages usually where lowering water levels concentrate fish in open wetlands; it also frequents paddy fields. Walking slowly and steadily in shallow water up to its belly, it seeks prey, which, like that of most of its relatives, consists of fish, frogs and large insects. It catches fish by holding its bill open in the water until a fish is detected. (Wikipedia)

“Tall and long-legged, the wood stork is the largest wading bird native to America. It is white with black flight feathers, distinctive because of its dark, featherless head (down to the upper neck) and thick, down-curved bill. Wood storks fly with neck and legs extended, interrupting strong wing beats with brief glides; their wingspan is 5 1/2 feet.” (FL FWCC) Their length is 33.5–45.3 in (85–115 cm) and weigh between72.3 to 93.1 oz (2050–2640 g). (NatGeo)

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Joyous Christmas 2013

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Dove in Snow ©©Flickr Roguey000

Dove in Snow ©©Flickr Roguey000

I’ve dusted the Christmas post from the past. But the message is still the same and I wanted to present our pastor’s illustration at the Cantata ’08. It has a very good message.

Christmas of 2013 is here and those of us at Lee’s Birdwatching Adventures; Lee, Dan, A J, Ian and all the guest writers would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas. We are busy doing things for the special day when we celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.  We will be seeing our relatives again this year and will enjoy our time together. Tonight, Christmas Eve, we will be sharing the Candlelight Service with all of our friends at church. We hope your Christmas Day and week are just as enjoyable as ours will be.

During all the festivities, pause to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. We enjoy our birdwatching adventures throughout the year, and try to write and photograph our friends the birds, but our goal is to show God’s magnificent creation and point you to Him. We do not worship nature, but we do worship the Lord who created it all.

Please watch the video of my pastor, Nathan Osborne, III, as he gave an excellent illustration about birds out in the cold and snow. It helps to explain the true meaning of Christmas. (Part of our Christmas cantata, “From the Manger to the Cross”)

He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:11-14 KJV)

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Sharing The Gospel

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Birds of the Bible – Woodpecker & Friend’s Storehouse

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Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Raymond Barlow

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Raymond Barlow

While working on the El Carpintero – The Woodpeckers article, many Bible verses about “gathering” and “storing” things were found. Following are some of those verses with photos. There is also a video of an Acorn Woodpecker gathering his supply.

We have used the verse about birds teaching us, so let’s see what can be learned this time about gathering and storing. (Job 12:7)

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) with Hoard or Grainary WikiC

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) with Hoard or Grainary WikiC

He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame. (Proverbs 10:5 NKJV)

PIC-Pici Acorn Woodpecker Granary Tree holes ©Flickr Ornitholoco

Provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest. (Proverbs 6:8 NKJV) (the ant)

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Reinier Munguia

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Reinier Munguia

Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it. (Proverbs 13:11 ESV)

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Ian

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by Ian

Wise people store up knowledge, But the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. The rich man’s wealth is his strong city; The destruction of the poor is their poverty. The labor of the righteous leads to life, The wages of the wicked to sin. (Proverbs 10:14-16 NKJV)

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) by Ray - They will store food for later use.

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) by Ray – They will store food for later use.

He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; (Proverbs 2:7 NKJV)

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) Collecting for Cache

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) Collecting for Cache

For they do not know to do right,’ Says the LORD, ‘Who store up violence and robbery in their palaces.’ ” (Amos 3:10 NKJV)

Western Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma californica) Holding an Acorn ©WikiC

Western Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma californica) Holding an Acorn ©WikiC

storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. (1 Timothy 6:19 NKJV)

Grey-headed Chickadee (Poecile cinctus) ©WikiC

Grey-headed Chickadee or Siberian Tit (Poecile cinctus, formerly Parus cinctus) May store upto 500,000 items per year ©WikiC

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Birds of the Bible – Dove With Gold Feathers

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Golden Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus luteovirens) ©WikiC

Golden Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus luteovirens) ©WikiC

Though you lie down among the sheepfolds, You will be like the wings of a dove covered with silver, And her feathers with yellow gold.” (Psalms 68:13 NKJV)

That is an interesting verse which describes a Dove with feathers that are the color of yellowish-gold. Are there Doves like that today that we can find a photo of? Let’s see. The first photo found was the one at the top of a Golden Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus luteovirens). I see yellowish-gold, but no silver. Let me keep checking.

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) by Ian

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) by Ian

How about this one? What do you think? The head looks silver and I see yellowish-gold. Let’s take a few more looks at this Wompoo Fruit Dove.

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) ©WikiC

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) ©WikiC

We actually saw this bird at the National Aviary in Pittsburg, PA. Here is a photo that Dan took.

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) by Dan at National Aviary

Wompoo Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus) by Dan at National Aviary

What do others in their commentaries say about this verse?

Poole – As the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold; beautiful and glorious, like the feathers of a dove, which according to the variety of its postures, and of the light shining upon it, look like silver or gold.

McGee – In this psalm it seems to have the same meaning—Israel was undecided and inactive. “Yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove”—the dove was a sacrificial bird and is a type of Christ. What a picture this gives us. Though they be negligent, though they are not moved by enthusiasm, yet the sacrifice of Christ will cover them. This psalm could actually be called the psalm of the Ascension since we have a verse that is quoted in Eph_4:8: “… When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.”

MHCC – Psalms 68:7-14 – Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. … Israel in Egypt among the kilns appeared wretched, but possessed of Canaan, during the reigns of David and Solomon, appeared glorious. Thus the slaves of Satan, when converted to Christ, when justified and sanctified by him, look honourable. When they reach heaven, all remains of their sinful state disappear, they shall be as the wings of the dove, covered with silver, and her feathers as gold. Full salvation will render those white as snow, who were vile and loathsome through the guilt and defilement of sin.

Treasury of David – Psa_68:13 “Though ye have lien among the pots.” Does he mean that the women at home, who had been meanly clad as they performed their household work, would be so gorgeously arrayed in the spoil, that they would be like doves, of silver wing and golden plumage?

Or, would he say that Israel, which had been begrimed in the brick-kilns of Egypt, should come forth lustrous and happy in triumph and liberty?

Or, did the song signify that the ark should be brought from its poor abode with Obed-edom into a fairer dwelling-place?

It is a hard passage, a nut for the learned to crack. … but the sense seems to be, that from the lowest condition the Lord would lift Up his people into joy, liberty, wealth, and beauty. Their enemies may have called them squatters among the pots – in allusion to their Egyptian slavery; they may have jested at them as scullions of Pharaoh’s kitchen; but the Lord would avenge them and give them beauty ‘for blackness, glory for grime. “Yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.” The dove’s wing flashes light like silver, and anon gleams with the radiance of “the pale, pure gold.” The lovely, changeable colours of the dove might well image the mild, lustrous beauty of the nation, when arrayed in white holiday-attire, bedecked with their gems, jewels, and ornaments of gold. God’s saints have been in worse places than among the pots, but now they soar aloft into the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

TSK Treasury of Scripture Knowledge – Psalms 68:13 Though: That is, probably, “Though ye have laboured and lain down between the brick-kilns in Egypt – a poor, enslaved, and oppressed people, yet ye shall gradually rise to dignity, prosperity, and splendour; as a dove, which has been defiled with dirt, disordered, and dejected, by washing herself in a running stream, and trimming her plumage, gradually recovers the serenity of her disposition, the purity of colour, and the richness and varied elegance of her appearance.”

Wesley – Ye – Ye Israelites. Ye are – Tho’ you have formerly been exposed to great reproach and misery, yet God hath changed your condition. Gold – Beautiful and glorious, like the feathers of a dove, which according to the variety of its postures, and of the light shining upon it, look like silver and gold.

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These writers are all are telling of someone who was dull from sin or slavery. The Lord reaches down and brings them out of that condition, cleans them up, and they shine like a dove with silver and gold.

Before we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are in sin, our hearts are dark. If we accept His free gift of salvation, confessing that we are sinners and believing that only He can save us, He will save us and clean us up. We will shine like the Dove. You will shine like “the wings of a dove covered with silver, And her feathers with yellow gold.”

As I have been writing this, another dove has come to mind. The Nicobar Pigeon is a bird that when it is in the shadows or shade, looks rather dull. When it gets out in the sunshine, it shines. Its feathers are iridescent.

Nicobar Pigeon in the shade by Lee at LPZ

Nicobar Pigeon in the shade by Lee at LPZ

Now let’s bring a Nicobar out into the light:

Nicobar Imperial Pigeon (Ducula nicobarica) ©Steve Wilson

Nicobar Imperial Pigeon (Ducula nicobarica) ©Steve Wilson

Nicobar Imperial Pigeon (Ducula nicobarica) Feather ©©Global Dictator

Nicobar Imperial Pigeon (Ducula nicobarica) Feather ©©Global Dictator

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Thankful For The Birds

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Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) ©©Flickr

Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) ©©Flickr
Saw my first one at my feeder

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1:16 KJV)

All week I have been posting articles of Thanksgiving, since yesterday was Thanksgiving Day here in the United States. So today, in that same thankful attitude, I am just going to share some of my most favorite birds. These are not necessarily birds we have seen, but super birds that the Lord created. I am especially thankful for my husband who enjoys our avian friends as well as I do.

Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla) and Dan at Brevard Zoo

Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla) and Dan
Taken at the Brevard Zoo

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:1-3 KJV)

Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) by Judd Patterson

Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) by Judd Patterson
I love all the birds in the Hummingbird family

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (Revelation 4:11 KJV)

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata) by

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata) by Dan
What a paintbrush the Lord must have!

For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: (1 Timothy 4:4 KJV)

Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus) by ©Wiki Closeup

Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus) by ©Wiki Closeup
Where is the beak?

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (Romans 1:20 KJV)

Wattled Broadbill (Sarcophanops steerii) ©WikiC fveronesi1

Wattled Broadbill (Sarcophanops steerii) ©WikiC fveronesi1
That bird is clean-cut and cute!

“But now ask the beasts, and let them teach you; And the birds of the heavens, and let them tell you. (Job 12:7 NASB)

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) by Daves BirdingPix

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) by Daves BirdingPix
You can’t be from Indiana and not like Cardinals!

the stork, and the heron in their kinds, and the hoopoe and the bat. (Deuteronomy 14:18 NASB)

Hoopoe Feeding Young ©©Dvir Lotan from Israel

Hoopoe Feeding Young ©©Dvir Lotan from Israel

There are just too many, so I am adding a slideshow for you to enjoy a few more of them.

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There are around 10,600 named birds that I love and am thankful for each one of them.

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Thanksgiving For Young People

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Yellow-throated Warbler (Dendroica dominica) by Bob-Nan

Yellow-throated Warbler (Dendroica dominica) by Bob-Nan

Are you thankful for all that the Lord does?

Both young men and maidens; Old men and children. Let them praise the name of the LORD, For His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven.
(Psalms 148:12-13 NKJV)

Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) at Nest by Anthony747

Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) at Nest by Anthony747

Are you thankful for parents or guardians that care enough to correct you?

Children with good sense accept correction from their parents, but stubborn children ignore it completely. (Proverbs 13:1 CEV)

Even a child is known by his deeds, Whether what he does is pure and right. (Proverbs 20:11 NKJV)

My Mom and Me 37

Are you thankful for the training you are getting, even when you don’t get your way?

Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6 NKJV)

A poor yet wise lad is better than an old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive instruction. (Ecclesiastes 4:13 NASB)

Warbling Vireo (Vireo gilvus) by Raymond Barlow

Warbling Vireo (Vireo gilvus) by Raymond Barlow

Are you thankful for all that the Lord, your Creator, has made?

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them”: (Ecclesiastes 12:1 NKJV)

King Shag (Leucocarbo albiventer) - head close-up Saunders Island

King Shag (Leucocarbo albiventer) – head close-up Saunders Island

Are you thankful to the Lord for His blessings to you even when some around you make fun of you?

But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant, and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, “‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?”  (Matthew 21:15-16 ESV)

Savannah Sparrow Fifty Point-Canada by Ray Barlow

Savannah Sparrow Fifty Point-Canada by Ray Barlow

Are you thankful that the Lord helps you to obey?

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. (Colossians 3:20 NKJV)

Pelican

Pelican

Are you thankful for the Bible (Holy Scriptures) for telling you how to have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ?

and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15 NKJV)

May the Lord give you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving ©Blanca Mejia

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This was posted on the Birds of the Bible For Kids blog. Sharing it here.)

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New Testament Thanksgiving – 2013

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Yellow-fronted Woodpecker (Melanerpes flavifrons) by Dario Sanches

Yellow-fronted Woodpecker (Melanerpes flavifrons) by Dario Sanches

New Testament

And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. (Matthew 15:36 KJV)

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) by Phil Kwong

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) by Phil Kwong

And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. (John 6:11 KJV)

Great Blue Heron with Catfish at Circle B by Lee - cropped

Great Blue Heron with Catfish at Circle B by Lee – cropped

He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. (Romans 14:6 KJV)

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) by W Kwong

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) by W Kwong

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57 KJV)

Black-throated Mango (Anthracothorax nigricollis) by Dario Sanches

Black-throated Mango (Anthracothorax nigricollis) by Dario Sanches

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. (2 Corinthians 9:15 KJV)

Rufous Motmot (Baryphthengus martii) ©WikiC

Rufous Motmot (Baryphthengus martii) ©WikiC

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; (Ephesians 5:20 KJV)

Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia) by Clement Francis

Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia) by Clement Francis

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. (Colossians 3:17 KJV)

Crested Coua (Coua cristata) by Lee LPZ

Crested Coua (Coua cristata) by Lee LPZ

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV)

Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus) by Margaret Sloan

Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus) by Margaret Sloan

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:15 KJV)

Crested Berrypecker (Paramythia montium) ©WikiC

Crested Berrypecker (Paramythia montium) ©WikiC

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Bible Birds – Peacocks I

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Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the navy of Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (1 Kings 10:22 KJV)For the king’s ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (2 Chronicles 9:21 KJV)

Now Peacocks II

(Relocated)

Birds of the Bible – Peacocks II

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Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the navy of Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (1 Kings 10:22 KJV)

For the king’s ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (2 Chronicles 9:21 KJV)

In my reading today in I Kings 10, I came to the peacocks arriving to Israel via the Navy of Tharshish or Tarshish. We have written about them in Birds of the Bible – Peacocks (2008) and Birds of the Bible – Pied Peacock and Allies (2011). It’s time to see what else can be discovered about these beautifully created birds by the Lord.

Peacock Feather

Peacock Feather

We know He, The LORD, questioned Job about the Peacocks “goodly wings” in Job 39.

Gavest thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich? (Job 39:13 KJV)

Now, in I Kings and II Chronicles, the Peacocks are arriving in ships by the Navy of Tharshish. It appears that every three years those ships arrived with its precious cargos. Where had the ships gone to collect these items. There is speculation by some writers that the ships went west to Spain and other think in another way toward India and areas in that direction. The Bible does not say, so, we really don’t know.

Does that make you curious? It make me wonder where they found those peacocks.

Checking the history of Peacocks from CreationWiki and Wikipedia, they say that there are two species of Peafowl from Asia and one species from Africa. Is that were they got these Peacocks mentioned here in Scripture? When you are reading the Bible, do questions like this every give you an urge to dig a little deeper?

First, the “Peacocks” are the males. The females are called “Peafowl” and their chicks are called “Peachicks.”  Collectively the birds are called Peafowl. They all belong to the Phasianidae – Pheasants, Fowl & Allies Family.

The two species from India-Asia are the Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) by Nikhil Devasar

and the Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus).

Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus) by Ian

Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus) by Ian

The African member of the family is the Congo Peacock (Afropavo congensis).

Congo Peacock (Afropavo congensis) M F ©WikiC

Congo Peacock (Afropavo congensis) M F ©WikiC

Here are some of the thought of various commentaries:

JFB – once in three years — that is, every third year. Without the mariner’s compass they had to coast along the shore. The ivory, apes, and peacocks might have been purchased, on the outward or homeward voyage, on the north coast of Africa, where the animals were to be found. They were particularized, probably as being the rarest articles on board.

Geneva – By Tharshish is meant Cilicia, which was abundant in the variety of precious things.

Darby – 1 Kings 10:1-29 – The king of Tyre also was dependent on the king of Israel; and the queen of Sheba comes from the far south to delight herself in the wisdom of the head of God’s people, and to be filled with wonder at the sight of his glory, and to praise Jehovah who had raised him so high, and who had blessed the people in giving him to be their king. She also came with gifts; for the king’s renown had spread into distant lands. Nevertheless, although it was a true report that she had heard, the sight of his glory went far beyond all that had been said of it.

Constable – God forbade Israel’s kings from multiplying chariots (1Ki_10:26), the most effective and dreaded military machines of their day (Deu_17:16). God wanted His people to depend on Him primarily for their protection. Material prosperity and security often lead people to conclude that they have no needs when really our need for God never diminishes. Solomon fell into this trap. Wealth is not sinful in itself, but it does bring temptations with it (cf. Jam_5:1-6).

Though Solomon experienced great blessings from his faithful God, he fell prey to the sins these blessings make easier, as the writer explained in the next chapter.

Barnes – This is given as the reason of the great bountifulness of silver in the time of Solomon. The “navy of Tharshish” (not the same as the navy of Ophir, 1Ki_9:26) must therefore have imported very large quantities of that metal. Tharshish, or Tartessus, in Spain, had the richest silver mines known in the ancient world, and had a good deal of gold also; apes and ivory were produced by the opposite coast of Africa; and, if north Africa did not produce “peacocks,” which is uncertain, she may have produced the birds called here “tukkiyim,” which some translate “parrots,” others “guinea-fowl” – the latter being a purely African bird. The etymology of the Hebrew words here rendered “ivory,” “apes,” and “peacocks,” is uncertain; but even if of Indian origin, the Jews may have derived their first knowledge of ivory, apes, and peacocks, through nations which traded with India, and may thus have got the words into their language long before the time of Solomon. The names once fixed would be retained, whatever the quarter from where the things were procured afterward.

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) at Cincinnati Zoo by Lee

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) at Cincinnati Zoo by Lee

We have no clear idea of where they came from, and it really does not matter other than we are told they came by ship. We know that Solomon was the wisest and wealthiest king because God promised him back when he prayed for wisdom.

And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in….. Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days. And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days. (1 Kings 3:7-14 KJV)

(Javan) Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus muticus) by Lee at Zoo Miami

(Javan) Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus muticus) by Lee at Zoo Miami

Wow! Is that not true of those of us who know the Lord? The Lord answers our prayers many times by giving us much more than we ever asked for. As long as our prayers are in line with His Word.

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (Ephesians 3:17-20 KJV)

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Hide Me

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Do you see me?

Common Potoo (Nyctibius griseus) by Daves BirdingPix

And David said to Jonathan, “Indeed tomorrow is the New Moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king to eat. But let me go, that I may hide in the field until the third day at evening. (1 Samuel 20:5 NKJV)

Andean Potoo (Nyctibius maculosus) on a branch ©WikiC

Andean Potoo (Nyctibius maculosus) on a branch ©WikiC

Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings, (Psalms 17:8 KJV)

Northern Potoo (Nyctibius jamaicensis) ©©jerryoldenettel

Northern Potoo (Nyctibius jamaicensis) ©©jerryoldenettel

For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. (Psalms 27:5 KJV)

Nacunda Nighthawk (Podager nacunda) by R Scanlon

Nacunda Nighthawk (Podager nacunda) by R Scanlon

And do not hide Your face from Your servant, For I am in trouble; Hear me speedily. (Psalms 69:17 NKJV)

Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus) by Ian

Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus) by Ian

Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me. (Psalms 143:9 KJV)

Collared Nightjar(Caprimulgus enarratus) by Dave's BirdingPix

Collared Nightjar(Caprimulgus enarratus) by Dave’s BirdingPix

And when Absalom’s servants came to the woman to the house, they said, Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 17:20 KJV)

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) by Daves BirdingPix

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) by Daves BirdingPix

Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD: They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. (Proverbs 1:28-30 KJV)

Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) ©©Flickr - dominic sherony

Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) ©©d.sherony

Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. (Isaiah 41:12 KJV)

Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) by J Fenton

Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) by J Fenton

Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it. (Amos 8:11-12 KJV)

Mountain Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles albertisi) ©WikiC

Mountain Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles albertisi) ©WikiC

What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? (Luke 15:4 KJV)

Short-eared Owl ©WikiC

Short-eared Owl ©WikiC

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. (Luke 15:8-10 KJV)

Pallid Scops Owl (Otus brucei) by Nikhil Devasar

Pallid Scops Owl (Otus brucei) by Nikhil Devasar

Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come. (John 7:34 KJV)

Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala) ©WikiC Feeding

Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala) ©WikiC Feeding

That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: (Acts 17:27 KJV)

American Woodcock (Scolopax minor) on nest © USFWS

American Woodcock (Scolopax minor) on nest © USFWS

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. (Romans 7:18 KJV)

Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris) on nestby Nikhil Devasar

Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris) on nestby Nikhil Devasar

If thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which are written in this book of the law, and if thou turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul. For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. (Deuteronomy 30:10-11 KJV)

Pale-yellow Robin (Tregellasia capito) in nest by Ian

Pale-yellow Robin (Tregellasia capito) in nest by Ian

And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. (Isaiah 45:3 KJV)

Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) on nest by Kent Nickell

Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) on nest by Kent Nickell

Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them. (Isaiah 48:6 KJV)

Black-faced Sandgrouse (Pterocles decoratus) ©WikiC

Black-faced Sandgrouse (Pterocles decoratus) ©WikiC

But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (1 Corinthians 2:7 KJV)

Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis) by Lee

Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis) by Lee

rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:4 NKJV)

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When the Lord created the birds, some of them he made very beautiful to look at, others he made very hard to find. He did that for their protection. Either way, He loves them and cares for them. How much more does he care for us, love us and protect us?

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Bible Birds – Hasting’s Sparrow Poem

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Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) by Ray

Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) by Ray

So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:31 NASB)

Some years ago King Edward the Seventh visited Norwich. The school children were drawn up in a line to meet him, and when he passed along they cheered just as loud as ever they could, and they sang “God save the king” with all their heart and soul. But after the monarch had passed by one little girl was found in floods of tears. The teacher, trying to comfort her, asked, “Didn’t you see the king?” “Ye—es,” sobbed the girl, “but he did—didn’t see me!”

An earthly king, no matter how kind and willing he may be, cannot see everybody, but the great King of kings sees and knows and loves each one of us as though that one were the only person in the world. He knows you far more intimately than your father or mother does. He is never too busy looking after the world to forget one of you. It doesn’t matter how plain you are, or how poor, or how little thought of, God cares for you. He cares for the plain, despised sparrow, and He cares far, far more for you.

Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) by Nikhil Devasar

Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) by Nikhil Devasar

I’m only a little sparrow,
A bird of low degree;
My life is of little value,
But the dear Lord cares for me.

White-browed Sparrow-Weaver (Plocepasser mahali) ©WikiC

White-browed Sparrow-Weaver (Plocepasser mahali) ©WikiC

I know there are many sparrows;
All over the world they are found;
But our Heavenly Father knoweth
When one falls to the ground.

Sind Sparrow (Passer pyrrhonotus) by Nikhil Devasar

Sind Sparrow (Passer pyrrhonotus) by Nikhil Devasar

I fly through the thickest forest,
I alight on many a spray;
I have no chart or compass,
But I never lose my way.

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) ©USFWS

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) ©USFWS

I just fold my wings at nightfall
Wherever I happen to be;
For the Father is always watchings
No harm can happen to me.

Savannah Sparrow Fifty Point-Canada by Ray Barlow

Savannah Sparrow Fifty Point-Canada by Ray Barlow

I am only a little sparrow,
A bird of low degree,
But I know that the Father loves me.
Dost thou know His love for thee?

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The thoughts and poem are from The Children’s Great Text of the Bible by James Hastings. Part of the commentary on Matthew 10:31.

See:

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