שׁוֹר

The Hebrew word שׁוֹר (shor) generally refers to a bovine animal, encompassing bulls, oxen, and sometimes cows. Its semantic range is broad, covering both male and female cattle, though often with an emphasis on the male for characteristics like strength or breeding. The primary usages of שׁוֹר in the Old Testament relate to agriculture, sacrifice, and as a form of wealth or property. These animals were essential for plowing fields, treading out grain, and pulling carts, making them indispensable for ancient Israelite agrarian life. The Law of Moses often addresses the treatment of oxen, highlighting their economic value and the need for their welfare, as seen in regulations regarding straying oxen or those that cause harm.

Beyond their practical uses, שׁוֹר played a significant role in Israelite religious life, particularly in sacrificial offerings. Bulls and bullocks were among the most prominent animals prescribed for various sacrifices, including sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings. The offering of a bull often signified a high level of atonement or devotion, reflecting the animal's substantial value within the society. This sacrificial role imbues the term with theological weight, connecting it to themes of expiation, worship, and covenant relationship with God.

The presence of שׁוֹר in personal possessions also underscores its economic and social importance. Owning oxen demonstrated a certain level of prosperity, and they were often included in descriptions of a person's wealth alongside other livestock. This aspect highlights the animal not just as a beast of burden or sacrifice, but also as a marker of social standing and a vital economic asset. The diverse contexts in which שׁוֹר appears in the Old Testament—from agricultural labor to cultic rituals to expressions of wealth—demonstrate its pervasive influence on the daily life and religious practices of ancient Israel.