Biblical Parallels Index – Shemot 19/0
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
This topic has not yet undergone editorial review
Biblical Parallels Index – Shemot 19
Wings of Eagles The Torah uses the image of Hashem carrying Israel on eagles’ wings in both Shemot 19 and Devarim 32. Does the image convey the same message in both cases? What is the metaphor meant to invoke? How does each verse bear on the other?
Tools
- Concordance – A concordance search reveals that the word נשר appears just a handful of times in Torah, but is used twice as a metaphor for Hashem's interactions with the nation. In both Shemot 19:4 and Devarim 32:11, the nation is depicted as being carried on eagle's wings. Devarim 32, though, elaborates on the metaphor also speaking of the eagle hovering over its nest.
Primary Sources
- Ibn Ezra equates the two metaphors and on Devarim 32:11 explains that the imagery reflects the majesty and speed with which they left Egypt.
Articles
- See “Upon the Wings of Eagles” and “Under the Wings of the Shekhinah”: Poetry, Conversion, and the Memorial Prayer by R. Yaakov Jaffe. This article explores different variations of the metaphor of eagles’ wings through the interpretations of classical commentators, relating these ideas to the liturgical use of this image.
