Why does the KJV Bible talk about the unicorn?

TL;DR:

The KJV translators used the word “unicorn” to refer to an animal with one horn. The unicorn in the Bible is not the same as the mythological creature we know as the unicorn today.

The word unicorn means "beast with one horn" and does not necessarily refer to the creature we usually picture when we think of a unicorn—that is, a beautiful fantasy horse with one long, shining silver or rainbow horn on its forehead. Today, there are only a few creatures that could fit the description of a "beast with one horn," most notably the rhinoceros and the narwhal. There is no evidence that the writers of the Bible were referring to the mythical unicorn we see depicted today. When translators of the KJV used the word "unicorn" they were probably trying to simply give the impression of a beast with one horn (the re'em) that was powerful and untamable.

from the old testament

There once existed an animal, now extinct, called the Elasmotherium. This animal was a very large Eurasian rhinoceros with a large horn in the middle of its forehead. The Bible uses the word re'em to describe a similar beast, and it is possible that the writers were referring to the Elasmotherium when they used the word re'em (Numbers 23:22, 24:8; Deuteronomy 33:17; Job 39:9-10; Psalm 22:21, 29:6; Isaiah 34:7).
The word re'em is only translated "unicorn" in the King James Version of the Bible. Modern translations say "wild ox" instead. Scholars think that the re'em could possibly be a reference to another extinct animal, the auroch, which was a large ancestor of the domesticated cow.
In Job 39:9-10, God asks Job whether or not he has the power to control the unicorn, to make it furrow the fields or lie meekly by his bedside as his servant or pet. God makes the point that only He can control such a powerful animal because His power is much greater than that of a man.

from the new testament

A one-horned animal is not mentioned in the New Testament.

implications for today

The topic of unicorns in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible offers a fascinating glimpse into historical translation and cultural context. The term "unicorn" in the KJV does not refer to the mythical creature we envision today, but rather to an animal with a single horn, possibly an extinct species like the Elasmotherium or aurochs. Understanding this distinction helps clarify biblical passages and highlights the translators' attempt to convey the image of a powerful, untamed creature. For personal application, this exploration underscores the importance of historical and contextual understanding when interpreting ancient texts, including Scripture. Doing so enriches our comprehension and appreciation of biblical narratives beyond superficial modern interpretations.

understand

The KJV Bible uses "unicorn" to describe an animal with one horn, not the mythical creature we know today.
Biblical passages referring to "unicorn" likely describe a powerful, untamed beast, possibly an extinct species like the Elasmotherium or aurochs.
Understanding the changes of word meanings over time helps us interpret biblical texts accurately within their historical and cultural contexts, avoiding modern misconceptions of word translations.

reflect

At the time the KJV was written, “unicorn” did not mean a mythological flying creature but rather just an animal with one horn (the re'em) that was powerful and untamable.
How does knowing the historical context behind the term "unicorn" in the KJV impact your approach to studying biblical texts?
What insights into God's power and sovereignty can be gleaned from understanding biblical descriptions of "unicorn" as referring to powerful, untamed beasts?
How does understanding ancient cultural perspectives deepen your faith and understanding of Scripture?

engage

The mythical unicorn has appeared in art and historical accounts since antiquity as a reclusive and wild woodland animal of extreme purity and grace that could only be tamed by a virgin. What those writers were referring to—whether it was based on a real animal that no longer exists, or simply a figment of their imagination—it is not the same creature that is mentioned in Scripture.
Why did the translators of the KJV choose to use "unicorn" to translate Hebrew words like re'em? How does this choice affect our interpretation today?
How might the biblical depiction of "unicorn" challenge common misconceptions about mythical creatures and biblical literalism?