That bears were common in Palestine appears from several passages in the Old Testament, 1 Samuel 17:34,36,37; 2 Samuel 17:8; 2 Kings 2:24 . The species known in Syria resembles the common brown bear; it is sill met in the recesses of Lebanon. To a sullen and ferocious disposition, the bear joins immense strength, considerable sagacity, and the power of climbing trees. Her ferocity, especially when her young are injured, is proverbial. See 2 Samuel 17:8; Proverbs 17:12; Isaiah 11:7; Hosea 13:8 .