An archaic or poetic term for a lion, emphasizing its ferocity and strength. Less common than aryeh (H738) or kephir (H3715). Appears in Proverbs and Job as a literary variation.
Scripture's numerous words for 'lion' reflect the significance of this apex predator in the ancient Near East. The layish appears in wisdom contexts, symbolizing unstoppable strength. Job 4:11 uses it in a meditation on the fate of the mighty โ even the fierce lion perishes when God withdraws provision. Proverbs 30:30 lists it among the four things that walk with royal confidence. Theologically, the lion represents both the terrifying majesty of divine judgment and, in its Messianic application (the Lion of Judah, Rev. 5:5), the victorious, unstoppable power of Christ.