Sparrow

The sparrow, represented by many different species, is a seed-feeding bird found in most parts of the world. In ancient Israel, as in most older cultures, sparrows were often caught using fine nets stung across their flight paths and sold for food; hence Jesus' question, "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies?"

NIV uses 'sparrow' to translate the Hebrew word tsippor twice and the Greek word strouthion on two occasions (Psm 84:3; Prov 26:2, Matt 10:29, 31; Lk 12:6, 7). In these references the bird represents the gracious goodness of a God who does not forget even the lowly. Used in comparison with God's favour towards us humans, it serves to highlight God's providential care for us:

Psm 84:3 — Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young—a place near your altar, O Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

Matt 10:29-31 — Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Lk 12:6-7 — Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Tsippor is used in Prov 26:2 as a simile for "a curse without curse" that "does not come to rest."

It should be noted that tsippor can also refer to any small bird.

Here's an inconsequential trivia: Zippor—the father of Balak, the Moabite king who hired Balaam to curse Israel—is an English rendition of tsippor.