The cock, or rooster, the male of the domestic fowl, boasts a rich tapestry of history and cultural symbolism across civilizations. Originating from India, it spread to Babylonia and Greece in ancient times. Pinpointing its arrival in Palestine remains challenging due to ambiguous biblical references. Rabbinical tradition suggests that the term (Isaiah xxii. 17) designated “cock,” a name prevalent in Babylonian regions as late as the third century C.E. Another term, (Job xxxviii. 36), was also interpreted as “cock” by a fourth-century amora, noting its similar name in contemporary Arabia.
<![alt text: Ancient depiction of a rooster on a Babylonian artifact, highlighting its early presence in the region. Keyword: Babylonian rooster]>
The Midrash’s proposition that (Proverbs xxx. 31) refers to “cock” appears more credible, aligning with the Arabic “zarzar” meaning “cock.” However, Talmudic and Midrashic literature consistently uses the Babylonian term , possibly indicating the cock’s introduction to Palestine from Babylonia. These texts frequently mention the cock as a common domestic fowl, yet breeding them in Jerusalem during the Temple’s existence was prohibited due to their scratching habits, potentially spreading Levitical uncleanness (B. K. 82b).
<![alt text: Talmudic text discussing the prohibition of cock breeding in Jerusalem due to ritual purity concerns. Keyword: Jerusalem Temple rooster ban]>
Contrasting Symbolism: Cock and Bat
Jewish tradition contrasts the cock with the bat as symbols of day and night. A story illustrates this: both awaited daylight, but the cock asserted, “I may wait for the dawn, for light belongs to me; but for what do you need light?” (Sanh. 98b). This highlights the cock’s association with dawn and light, contrasting with the bat’s nocturnal nature.
Behavioral Traits and Folklore
The cock is depicted as the most impudent of birds (Bezah 25b) and proverbially lascivious (Ber. 22a). Yet, its considerate behavior towards hens is presented as exemplary (‘Er. 100b). The comb, the cock’s prominent ornament, is a source of pride; its removal diminishes the cock’s spirit (Shab. 110b). Cocks are also characterized as quarrelsome and vicious (Pes. 113b), with those from Bet Buqya particularly notorious for their aggression (Yeb. 84a). An anecdote recounts a cock killing a child by pecking its scalp (‘Eduy. vi. 1; Yer. ‘Er. x. 26a), illustrating a darker side to their nature. Even their crowing and flight are superstitiously linked to breaking dishes (B. K. 17a; Zid. 24b).
The Cock in Mythology and Religious Contexts
The cock holds a significant position in global mythologies (Gubernatis, “Zoological Mythology,” ii. 280-291). Persians revered it as sacred, an ally of Sraosha against darkness. Talmudic-Midrashic literature reflects pagan honors for the cock and their influence on Jewish thought. The Mishnah (‘Ab. Zarah i. 5) mentions pagan white cock sacrifices, leading to a Jewish prohibition against selling them to pagans. The idol Nergal (II Kings xvii. 30) was associated with a cock by Rabbis (Sanh. 63b), possibly due to phonetic similarities or deeper symbolic connections, similar to the cock-shaped Melek Taous of Devil-worshipers.
<![alt text: Image of Nergal idol, illustrating the potential visual association with a rooster in ancient interpretations. Keyword: Nergal rooster idol]>
Theories surrounding the cock’s crowing at dawn in Jewish literature may stem from Persian influence (Darmesteter’s Zend-Avesta translation; Schorr, “He-Ḥaluẓ,” i. 143, iii. 93, vii. 19). The Greek Baruch Apocalypse suggests the phenix’s wing rustling awakens cocks to converse in their language when angels prepare the sun (ch. iv.). Similarly, the Zend-Avesta depicts the cock crowing to urge men to “Arise, O men! recite the Ashem Yad va histen” (Vendidad, Fargard, xviii.). The Zohar describes a midnight hour of grace where divine fire touches the cock’s wings, prompting praise to God and calls to men for service (Zohar, Wayiqra, iii. 22b, 23a).
Benedictions and Superstitions
Talmudic tradition mandates a morning benediction upon hearing a cock crow: “Praised be Thou, O God, Lord of the world, that gavest understanding to the cock to distinguish between day and night” (Ber. 60b), linked to Job xxxviii. 36, interpreting from (“to see”), designating the cock as foreseeing dawn. The Zend-Avesta also calls the cock “parôdars” (dawn foreseer). A late Midrash (“Seder Yeẓirat ha-Walad,” in Jellinek’s “B. H.” i. 155) uniquely states that only the cock hears the dying’s sobs at the sight of the soul-taking angel. The cock’s celestial favor may explain the belief that observing its comb reveals the moment God withdraws mercy during the first three daylight hours, marked by comb color changes.
<![alt text: Depiction of a rooster crowing at dawn, symbolizing its role as a timekeeper and divine messenger in folklore. Keyword: Rooster dawn crowing symbolism]>
Medieval superstitions surrounding the cock were common. It is still used as “kapparah” (atonement), and Judah the Pious’s will dictated immediate killing of a vessel-upsetting cock due to evil spirits. Demons (“shadim”) were believed to have cock’s feet (Ber. 6a). Many superstitions persist among some populations, like cock scratching signifying approaching visitors.
Conclusion
From ancient texts to folklore, the cock’s image is multifaceted. It embodies timekeeping, courage, and even superstition. Comparing across cultures, the cock consistently emerges as a potent symbol, reflecting humanity’s enduring fascination with this domestic yet symbolically rich creature. Further comparative studies could delve deeper into regional variations and evolving interpretations of the cock across history.
References
- Lewysohn, Zoologie des Talmuds, pp. 194-199.
- Kohut, Aruch Completum, s.v. .
- Rubin, in Ha-Karmel (weekly), vol. iii., Nos. 9, 11.
