ants in the Bible

Hebrew: “nemalah,” from a word meaning to creep, cut off, destroy.

This word is used only twice in the Bible (Proverbs 6:6 and 30:25). The ant is said to distinguished for its prudent habits. Many ants in Israel feed on animal substances, but others draw their nourishment partly or exclusively from vegetables. A plant-eating ant is referred to by Solomon. This ant gathers the seeds in the season of ripening, and stores them for future use—a habit that has been observed in ants in various parts of the world.

Author: Matthew G. Easton.

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