Bible Dictionary
Dromedary
A dromedary is a one-humped camel, noted in Scripture for speed and use in riding and carrying burdens. Camels were common among the patriarchs and other peoples of the biblical lands.
Definition
A dromedary is a one-humped African or Arabian camel, distinguished from the two-humped Bactrian camel. It was especially noted for speed and was used for riding and carrying burdens.
Biblical Usage
Camels and dromedaries appear in accounts of the patriarchs, trade, travel, riding, and the carrying of goods. Camel hair was woven into coarse cloth and was worn by John the Baptist.
Historical Background
The dromedary is distinguished functionally from other camels much as a trained saddle animal differs from one used for hauling. Its speed is emphasized in prophetic imagery.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Isa. 60:6), an African or Arabian species of camel having only one hump, while the Bactrian camel has two. It is distinguished from the camel only as a trained saddle-horse is distinguished from a cart-horse. It is remarkable for its speed (Jer. 2:23). Camels are frequently spoken of in partriarchal times (Gen. 12:16; 24:10; 30:43; 31:17, etc.). They were used for carrying burdens (Gen. 37:25; Judg. 6:5), and for riding (Gen. 24:64). The hair of the camel falls off of itself in spring, and is woven into coarse cloths and garments (Matt. 3:4). (See CAMEL.)
Smith's Bible Dictionary
[Camel]
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>drum'-e-da-ri, drom'-e-da-ri. See CAMEL.</p>