The unicorn is mentioned several times in the Bible. While no one knows for sure, some think it refers to the rhino, perhaps because the word "rhinoceros" means "horned nose." All rhinos have horns—some have two, others have just one. These horns actually are not made of bone, but are formed by hair-like fibers growing tightly together and are very tough and strong.
Rhinos are big. Some, like the so-called white rhino of Africa, are as much as 15 feet long and taller than most men. Their massive head has large, trumpet-like ears and huge nostrils on an ugly wrinkled snout. Their skin is rough and warty.
One type in India, weighing two to three tons, is an example of the armor-plated kind; with its loose skin folded into sections, it is the home of many parasites which attract birds known as oxpeckers. These birds may spend all day on a rhino's back and sides, providing considerable relief for it as they feast on the troublesome insects. They also give warning calls when other animals or people approach. This is, incidentally, another example of the Creator providing benefits shared between two creatures that are nothing alike.
Not only do these beasts look mean, but they are truly vicious and short-tempered—inclined to charge anything crossing their path whether it be an animal, a person, or even a car or train. Although they look clumsy on their short legs, they are as swift as a horse. It is a terrifying experience to be charged by one galloping at top speed, its feet pounding the ground while it snorts loudly through flared nostrils.
The African black rhino is the fiercest of all with its front horn two to three feet long and the back horn half that size. Their eyesight is poor, but a strong sense of smell and extra-sharp hearing make up for that problem. They are lightning fast when charging and extremely dangerous when wounded.
A tragedy for the rhinos is that their horns are in demand by people who grind them up and sell the powder at high prices as so-called medicine. They are also hunted by some native warriors who consider it a matter of pride to carry daggers with handles made from the horns. The result is that, although protected by the governments of Africa and India, poachers kill great numbers illegally just to get the horns, and it is feared these animals may some day become extinct unless the poaching can be stopped.
When those who love the Lord are with Him in heaven, we will learn and understand why such creatures as rhinos have been given a place in His creation. Meanwhile we can say "Thou art worthy... for Thou halt created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:1111Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (Revelation 4:11).