What does the word bear refer to in the Bible?

Answer 1

In Bible times bears were not yet extinct in that region and were thus a source of danger. They are mentioned a number of times in the Old Testament, both directly, and by analogy e.g. 'as the bear robbed of her cubs so is....' They are thus mentioned because they existed in that region at that time.

As for any specific passage, that would depend on the relevant reference. Sometimes they are mentioned in relation to personal dealings with people such as David referring to his need as a shepherd to guard against them, or the instance where a bear killed some disrespectful children.

Apart from human hunting of bears, it must also be remembered that their woodland habitat was largely intact in the Old Testament era, and that like today with many other species habitat destruction, with resultant loss of food would have greatly contributed to their decline.

Correction:Actually, bears are not "extinct" from that region. They still exist in Turkey, Afghanistan, Iran, etc.

Generally, the Biblical reference to bears is symbolic and not literal. Keep in mind that the Old Testament was not necessarily written during the times that are referred to in the Old Testament. It was written years later. Also, it has been rewritten and translated thousands of times.

Answer 2

If you mean the bear that is mentioned in Daniel 7:5, it is the 2nd Empire of Daniels interpretation of the King's dream or the Medo-Persian Empire of 558-330 BC. It equates to Daniel 2: 32, 39 of the Chest & Arms of Silver.

This tall image of a man with succeeding weaker metals was informing the King of his current rule (Chaldean or Babylonian from 625-539 BC) the lion and/or head of gold forwards to the final or last revival of the Roman Empire - a loose confederation of 10 kingdoms or nations or group of nations represented by the images 10 toes of iron & clay.

See Revelations 17 as Daniel is the key to unlocking what had been sealed up until recently. Enjoy :)

Answer 3

Apart from the animal, "bear" is also a verb that means to support or carry something.

Answer 4

2 Kings 2:24