Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(sprinkle). The male of the cow kind, and in scripture synonymous with bull. Used for plowing (Deut. 22:10); threshing, without muzzle (Deut. 25:4); draft (Num. 7:3); burden (1 Chron. 12:40); beef (Deut. 14:4); sacrifices (1 Kings 1:9).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
Oxen
Several Hebrew words are translated both Ox, Oxen, and Bull, Bullock. The principal word for “bullock” is par, this is constantly spoken of as offered in the sacrifices (Ex. 29:3-14). The same word is used in Psalm 22:12: “many bulls have compassed me.” The principal words translated “oxen” are:
1. baqar, so called because used for labor, though also offered in sacrifice (Num. 7:3-88; 2 Chron. 35:8-12).
2. shor, so called from its strength, boldness (Ex. 21:28-36; Prov. 14:4; Ezek. 1:10). In Psalm 22:12 for “strong [bulls]” the word is abbir, signifying “mighty one,” it is translated “bulls” in Psalm 50:13; Psalm 68:30; Isaiah 34:7 and Jeremiah 50:11. The ox is typical of attributive power in patience as found in the living creatures in Ezekiel 1:10; and in Revelation 4:7.
Ox
For WILD BULL in Isaiah 51:20 the word is to; and the WILD OX in Deuteronomy 14:5 is teo. Both of these are supposed to refer to some large antelope, which could be caught in a strong net.
From Manners and Customs of the Bible:
Deuteronomy 25:4. ‘Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn.
Threshing was sometimes done by instruments, (see note on Isa. 28:27-28, #508) and sometimes by having the grain trampled underfoot by horses or oxen. This is still a common mode in the East. The cattle are driven over the grain, treading heavily as they go, and in this rude, wasteful manner the threshing is accomplished. In general, the patient beasts are allowed to eat of the grain they tread out, though sometimes they are muzzled by parsimonious masters. See also Hosea 10:11. Paul from this law enforces the duty of ministerial support (1 Cor. 9:9).
Related Books and Articles: