Leviticus 11:4

But of those that only chew the cud or only have a divided hoof, you are not to eat the following: The camel, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you.

Study Bible

But of those that only chew the cud or only have a divided hoof, you are not to eat the following:
This phrase introduces a dietary law given to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals. The criteria for clean animals are that they must both chew the cud and have a divided hoof. This law is part of the Holiness Code, which sets Israel apart from other nations. The distinction between clean and unclean animals is symbolic of spiritual purity and separation from sin. This separation is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to be distinct from the world (2 Corinthians 6:17).

The camel, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof;
Camels were common in the ancient Near East and were valuable for transportation and trade. Despite chewing the cud, camels do not have a fully divided hoof, which disqualifies them as clean animals. This specific prohibition highlights the importance of adhering to God's standards rather than human logic. The camel's partial conformity to the clean animal criteria serves as a reminder that partial obedience is not sufficient in God's eyes. This principle is reflected in James 2:10, which states that breaking one part of the law is akin to breaking all of it.

it is unclean for you.
The designation of the camel as unclean underscores the concept of holiness and separation. In the cultural context of the Israelites, being unclean meant being ritually impure and unfit for worship. This law served to remind the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God and their call to be a holy nation (Exodus 19:6). The concept of uncleanness is further developed in the New Testament, where Jesus emphasizes internal purity over external rituals (Mark 7:18-23). The dietary laws, while no longer binding under the New Covenant (Acts 10:15), still teach valuable lessons about obedience and holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including dietary laws.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the dietary laws were given as part of the covenant.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the laws from God, including the dietary restrictions found in Leviticus.

4. Camel
An animal specifically mentioned in this verse as unclean due to its lack of a split hoof, despite chewing the cud.

5. Levitical Law
The body of laws given to the Israelites, including dietary restrictions, to set them apart as God's holy people.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Distinction
The dietary laws were given to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation. As Christians, we are called to live distinct lives that reflect God's holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were required to obey God's laws, even when they did not fully understand them. Similarly, we are called to trust and obey God's Word.

Symbolism of Purity
The distinction between clean and unclean animals symbolizes the need for spiritual purity. We should examine our lives for anything that may defile us spiritually.

Cultural and Historical Context
Understanding the historical and cultural context of the dietary laws helps us appreciate their significance and the radical nature of the New Testament teachings on food.

Christian Liberty
While the dietary laws are not binding on Christians, they remind us of the importance of respecting others' convictions and exercising our freedom responsibly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11:4 reflect God's desire for His people to be distinct from other nations?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of holiness and distinction in our lives today?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on clean and unclean foods (e.g., Acts 10, Mark 7) change our understanding of Leviticus 11:4?

4. What are some modern-day "unclean" influences that we should avoid to maintain spiritual purity?

5. How can we balance Christian liberty with sensitivity to others' beliefs and practices regarding food and other cultural issues?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 14:7
Reiterates the dietary laws, emphasizing the distinction between clean and unclean animals.

Acts 10:9-16
Peter's vision of the sheet with unclean animals, symbolizing the removal of dietary restrictions and the inclusion of Gentiles.

Mark 7:18-19
Jesus declares all foods clean, shifting the focus from external observance to internal purity.

Romans 14:14
Paul discusses the concept of clean and unclean in the context of Christian liberty and conscience.