Fluffle
Out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them. And whatever Adam called each living creature, that was its name. Genesis 2:19 NKJV
While we may be part of His flock, He still recognizes and calls us by name and I am eternally grateful. Deb Kastner, a contributing author with All God’s Creatures explains it all.
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As a writer, I’m fascinated by words. Sometimes the sound alone creates great joy in my heart, and I’ll repeat a word over and over just for fun, allowing it to roll off my tongue.
When I discovered a group of wild rabbits is called a “fluffle,” I was instantly in word wonderland. I repeated it several times, allowing it to flow across my lips. “Fluffle. Fluffle. Fluffle.” And honestly—really? Could there be a cuter name for sweet little bunnies?
There are other adorable collective nouns for animals as well. A group of penguins is sometimes a “waddle.” (Is that cute or what?) A group of squirrels may be called a “scurry.” A group of giraffes is called a “tower.” Have you ever heard of a “paddle” of platypuses? Ladybugs hanging out together are a “loveliness” or “bloom.” Not surprisingly, a group of owls is called a “parliament.” Wildebeests are amusingly called a “confusion.” The herd of zebra I see at the zoo? They’re also called a “dazzle.”
As for humans, we’re often referred to as a “flock.” No surprise there. Jesus Himself called us “sheep,” and there are several parables that address us in that way. It gives me great comfort to know that I am part of God’s flock, knowing He calls each sheep by name and perpetually stays close to guard over His flock. I couldn’t ask for a better, more faithful shepherd than Jesus, who loves me despite the times I’ve wandered off or followed the flock in the wrong direction.
All honor and glory and praise to our Good Shepherd who provides for our every need.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 (NKJV)
Father God, with grateful hearts we thank You and praise Your holy name. We rejoice with all of creation. AMEN.