4 entries · Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(Jer. 2:20)—a wooden frame placed on the necks of draft animals and attached to a plow or vehicle. It therefore became a symbol of servitude, oppression, and imposed rule, while breaking the yoke and tearing off bonds signified liberation (Jer. 5:5; Nah. 1:13). Scripture can also use the yoke positively for accepted discipline, covenant service, or discipleship, according to context.
See Agriculture and Yoke.
(Lev. 1:14; Luke 2:24)—birds accepted for certain offerings. A person unable to afford a lamb after childbirth could offer two turtledoves or two young pigeons (Lev. 12:6-8). Mary and Joseph brought this offering when Jesus was presented in the Temple, an indication of their modest means and their obedience to the Law (Luke 2:22-24). Pigeons and turtledoves are related but distinct birds; Luke presents them as alternatives allowed by the command.
(Luke 7:14)—a young person. The Gospels distinguish stages of life, speaking of Jesus as a child who grew and became strong (Luke 2:40) and later as a boy of twelve (Luke 2:42-43). Luke gives the account of the young man of Nain, whom Jesus raised from the dead and restored to his widowed mother (Luke 7:11-16).