Bible Dictionary
Weasel
The weasel is listed among the unclean creeping animals in Leviticus 11:29. The Hebrew word may instead refer to a mole-rat or similar burrowing creature, so the precise identification is uncertain.
Definition
The weasel is the animal traditionally identified with the Hebrew word in Leviticus 11:29. The identification is disputed, however, since the word may refer instead to a mole or mole-rat, a burrowing creature common in Palestine.
Biblical Usage
The creature appears only in the list of unclean creeping animals in Leviticus 11:29.
Historical Background
The weasel is found in Palestine, while the proposed mole-rat is also common there. The Hebrew term is rendered “weasel” by the traditional translations, though the mole-rat interpretation has been considered.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Heb. holedh), enumerated among unclean animals (Lev. 11:29). Some think that this Hebrew word rather denotes the mole (Spalax typhlus) common in Palestine. There is no sufficient reason, however, to depart from the usual translation. The weasel tribe are common also in Palestine.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(choled) occurs only in (Leviticus 11:29) in the list of unclean animals; but the Hebrew word ought more probably to be translated “mole.” Moles are common in Palestine.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>(1) Choledh is found only in Le 11:29, where it stands first in the list of eight unclean "creeping things that creep upon the earth." the King James Version and the Revised Version (British and American) agree in rendering choledh by "weasel," and the Septuagint has gale, "weasel" or "marten." According to Gesenius, the Vulgate, Targum, and Talmud support the same rendering. In spite of this array of authorities, it is worth while to consider the claims of the mole-rat, Spalax typhlus, Arabic khuld. This is a very common rodent, similar in appearance and habits to the mole, which does not exist in Palestine. The fact that it burrows may be considered against it, in view of the words, "that creepeth upon the earth." The term "creeping thing" is, however, very applicable to it, and the objection seems like a quibble, especially in view of the fact that there is no category of subterranean animals. See MOLE.</p><p>(2) The weasel, Mustela vulgaris, has a wide range in Asia, Europe, and North America. It is from 8 to 10 inches long, including the short tail. It is brown above and white below. In the northern part of its range, its whole fur, except the tail, is white in winter. It is active and fearless, and preys upon all sorts of small mammals, birds and insects.</p><p>See LIZARD.</p><p>Alfred Ely Day</p>