The largest living bird, but one incapable of flight. In antiquity ostrich eggs were eaten and the eggshells used to manufacture containers and ornaments. Its meat, however, was forbidden to the Hebrews (Lev 11:16; Deut 14:15). Detailed references to ostriches are found in (Job 39:13-18), where the ostrich’s characteristic way of waving its plumage is alluded to and it is reported to know no motherly love (v. 13). Its way of nest building is referred to (v. 14), and it is alleged that ostrich eggs are easily crushed (v. 15). The ostrich hen is supposed to be indifferent to her young (v. 16). The ostrich is accused of stupidity (v. 17) and justifiably acclaimed to be quicker than a horse (v. 18).
