ויקרא, פרק י״א, פסוק י״ד

The dietary laws outline a specific group of birds of prey, creatures known for their swift flight and piercing vision, which are forbidden for consumption. Identifying these exact birds has long occupied scholars, especially when comparing the names recorded here with the parallel list found in the Book of Deuteronomy.

One such bird is named for its remarkable speed and gliding ability as it swoops through the air [תולדות יצחק, אבן עזרא, חזקוני, רד צ הופמן]. Another is a medium-sized bird of prey [ביאור שטיינזלץ] whose name sparks different explanations. Some suggest it is named for its habit of dwelling in desolate areas and islands [תולדות יצחק, אבן עזרא, חזקוני], while others believe the name simply mimics the sound of its sharp shriek [שד״ל, רד צ הופמן].

The primary approach among commentators is to harmonize the birds mentioned here with the parallel list in Deuteronomy [תורה תמימה, מלבי״ם, ביאור יש״ר, חזקוני, אדרת אליהו]. According to this view, several of the names actually refer to the same birds, or even the exact same species [מלבי״ם]. For instance, one name highlights the bird's extraordinary vision, which allows it to spot prey from vast distances [תורה תמימה, תולדות יצחק, רלב״ג, רד צ הופמן]. The Torah deliberately uses multiple regional nicknames for the same bird for a highly practical reason: to prevent a person from accidentally eating a forbidden bird simply because it goes by a different name in their hometown [תורה תמימה, רלב״ג, ביאור יש״ר]. However, a slightly different tradition aligns these names differently, pointing to an alternative method of identification [נתינה לגר, רד צ הופמן].

The prohibition extends beyond an individual bird to encompass entire families, applying to each and every one belonging to that kind [הכתב והקבלה]. Even if various sub-species look different or carry different names, they are all included in the ban [אור החיים, רלב״ג, ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ, הכתב והקבלה]. This highlights a distinct method of categorization. While natural science might divide animals based on physical traits, the Torah groups them according to their inner essence or primary behavior. Creatures that appear entirely unrelated to a scientist are grouped together by the Torah if they share a defining internal characteristic [העמק דבר].

Beyond zoology and law, the very names of these birds carry a profound philosophical message regarding faith and divine providence. One bird's name sounds like the Hebrew word asking "Where?"—symbolizing the voice of skepticism that questions where divine reward and punishment can be found. In response, another bird's name echoes the word for "Here," serving as a reminder that God is always present, watches over the world, and judges humanity measure for measure [שפתי כהן].