Bible Dictionary
Owl
The Bible’s references to owls include several kinds of nocturnal birds, especially birds associated with ruins, wilderness, and desolation. Some passages traditionally translated “owl” are understood in newer versions to refer to the ostrich or another creature.
Biblical Usage
Owls occur in lists of birds regarded as unfit for food and in descriptions of wilderness, ruins, and desolation. The great owl and little owl are named in the dietary lists. Other passages describe birds inhabiting ruined places, while some traditional owl translations are rendered “ostrich” in newer versions. Psalm 102:6 uses the image of an owl of the waste places.
Scripture References