What is the meaning of the unicorn mentioned in the Bible?

The unicorn is a mythical creature that has been mentioned in various forms of literature and art throughout history. It is also mentioned in the Bible, which has led to much speculation and debate about its meaning. In this blog post, we will explore what the unicorn represents in the Bible.

The unicorn is mentioned several times in the King James Version of the Bible, most notably in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Psalms. In Numbers 23:22, it states, "God brought them out of Egypt; he hath as it were the strength of an unicorn." In Psalms 92:10, it states, "But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil."

The word "unicorn" in these passages is a translation of the Hebrew word "re'em," which is believed to refer to a wild ox or a type of antelope. In fact, some scholars believe that the unicorn mentioned in the Bible is not a mythical creature at all, but rather a real animal that was native to the Middle East and may have gone extinct.

However, the unicorn has also been interpreted in a symbolic or metaphorical sense. In medieval Christianity, the unicorn was often associated with Christ, and its horn was seen as a symbol of his power and authority. The unicorn was also often depicted as a symbol of purity and virginity, due to the belief that it could only be captured by a virgin.

In modern times, the unicorn has become a popular symbol of magic, fantasy, and whimsy. It is often depicted as a colorful, mystical creature with a magical horn, and it has been featured in numerous books, movies, and TV shows.

Subscribe to Bible Analysis

Sign up now to get access to the library of members-only issues.
Jamie Larson
Subscribe