If a bird's nest chance to be before thee in the way in any tree, or on the ground, whether they be young ones, or eggs, and the dam sitting upon the young, or upon the eggs, thou shalt not take the dam with the young:

DEUTERONOMY 22:6KJV
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Deuteronomy 22:6 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 22:6 mean?

Deuteronomy 22:6 instructs that if someone finds a bird’s nest with the mother bird sitting on her young or eggs, they must not take the mother along with the young. The verse sets a limit on what can be taken, requiring the person to leave the mother bird.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the Israelites, giving them specific laws for daily life as they prepare to enter the land of Canaan. The situation described is an ordinary one—coming across a bird’s nest while traveling. The law emphasizes restraint and care for living creatures, even in small, everyday encounters.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 22:6

  • The word for "bird's" is צִפּוֹר (tsippor), which refers generally to a bird, not a specific species. This shows the law applies broadly, not just to certain birds.
  • "Nest" is קֵן (qen), meaning a literal nest, highlighting the natural setting and vulnerability of the animals involved.
  • "Dam" is אֵם (em), meaning mother, emphasizing the protection of the parent bird rather than just the offspring.
  • "Take" is לָקַח (laqach), which means to seize or capture, making it clear the law is about not removing both generations at once.

Why Deuteronomy 22:6 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that the law is only about animals; it actually teaches a principle of mercy and self-restraint that extends to daily choices.
  • The verse stands out in a section of laws that often focus on people, showing that the Israelites were to show care even for small creatures.
  • The command connects to the wider biblical theme of respecting life and not being needlessly destructive, which is echoed in other parts of the law.