Bible Dictionary
DOLEFUL
Doleful means mournful or wailing. The doleful creatures of Isaiah 13:21 are probably jackals, while the related expression in Micah describes lamentation.
Definition
Doleful means mournful, wailing, or associated with lamentation. In Isaiah, the “doleful creatures” are probably jackals, although leopard, hyena, and owl have also been suggested. A related expression in Micah means a wailing lamentation.
Biblical Usage
Isaiah describes doleful creatures in the desolate setting of judgment. Micah uses the related term for lamentation or wailing.
Historical Background
Older English versions render the creatures in Isaiah as great owls. The identification is uncertain, with jackals regarded as the probable meaning in the supplied material.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>dol'-fool ('oach, "howling"): The "doleful creatures" referred to in Isa 13:21 are probably "jackals," although some have suggested "leopard," or "hyena." The older English Versions of the Bible gives "great owls." The word rendered "doleful lamentation" in Mic 2:4 (niheyah) is simply a form of the word ordinarily translated "wailing" (nehi). Compare the King James Version margin.</p>