Leviticus 7:19

Meat that touches anything unclean must not be eaten; it is to be burned up. As for any other meat, anyone who is ceremonially clean may eat it.

Study Bible

Meat that touches anything unclean
In the Hebrew text, the word for "meat" is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which refers to flesh or food. The concept of "unclean" (טָמֵא, tamei) is central to Levitical law, signifying ritual impurity. This phrase underscores the importance of maintaining purity in worship and daily life. The Israelites were called to be a holy people, set apart for God, and this required strict adherence to purity laws. The idea of something clean becoming unclean through contact is a powerful metaphor for the corrupting influence of sin.

must not be eaten
The prohibition against eating unclean meat is a direct command, emphasizing obedience to God's laws. In the ancient Near Eastern context, dietary laws were not just about health but about covenant faithfulness. Eating is an intimate act, and consuming something unclean would defile the individual, making them unfit for worship. This reflects the broader biblical theme that what we consume, both physically and spiritually, affects our relationship with God.

it shall be burned up
The command to burn the unclean meat signifies complete destruction, ensuring that no part of it is consumed or used. Burning is a purifying act, symbolizing the removal of impurity from the community. This act of burning also serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. In a broader theological sense, it points to the ultimate purification and judgment that God will bring upon sin.

As for other meat
This phrase introduces a contrast, indicating that not all meat is subject to the same restrictions. The distinction between clean and unclean is a recurring theme in Leviticus, highlighting God's order and the importance of discernment. It reminds believers that while some things are permissible, others are not, and wisdom is needed to navigate these choices.

anyone who is ceremonially clean
The term "ceremonially clean" refers to a state of ritual purity required for participation in worship and community life. In Hebrew, "clean" is "טָהוֹר" (tahor), which means pure or free from defilement. This state was achieved through various purification rites, underscoring the need for holiness in approaching God. For Christians, this points to the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice, which makes us spiritually clean and able to enter God's presence.

may eat it
The permission to eat clean meat is a blessing, reflecting God's provision and care for His people. Eating in a state of purity is an act of fellowship with God, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. It reminds believers of the importance of gratitude and reverence in receiving God's gifts. In the New Testament, this is echoed in the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in communion with Christ, the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites on how to live a holy life.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, called to be a holy nation set apart for God.

3. Tabernacle
The central place of worship where sacrifices and offerings were made, and where the laws concerning cleanliness were particularly relevant.

4. Priests
The mediators between God and the Israelites, responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws of cleanliness and sacrifice.

5. Ceremonial Cleanliness
A state required for participation in worship and consumption of sacrificial meat, symbolizing spiritual purity.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The command to burn meat that touches anything unclean underscores the importance of holiness and separation from sin. Believers are called to live distinct lives, avoiding spiritual contamination.

Community Responsibility
The laws of cleanliness were not just personal but communal. As members of the body of Christ, we have a responsibility to uphold purity within our community, encouraging one another in righteousness.

Symbolism of Purity
The physical act of burning unclean meat symbolizes the need to remove sin from our lives. This points to the New Testament call to purify our hearts and minds through Christ.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
While the ceremonial laws are fulfilled in Christ, the principle of living a life set apart for God remains. We are called to spiritual cleanliness through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Obedience
The Israelites' obedience to these laws was a practical expression of their faith. Similarly, our daily choices and actions should reflect our commitment to God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ceremonial cleanliness in Leviticus 7:19 relate to the idea of spiritual purity in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of separation from unclean things in our modern Christian walk?

3. How does understanding the communal aspect of the cleanliness laws affect our interactions within the church community today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are living lives that are spiritually clean and set apart for God?

5. How does the fulfillment of the law in Christ change our approach to Old Testament laws like those found in Leviticus 7:19?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Expands on the laws of clean and unclean foods, providing a broader context for understanding the importance of ceremonial cleanliness.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, which signifies the removal of the ceremonial law's restrictions in Christ, emphasizing the spiritual rather than physical purity.

1 Corinthians 10
Discusses the principle of not causing others to stumble, which can relate to the communal aspect of maintaining purity and consideration for others in the community.

Hebrews 10
Highlights the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which fulfills and transcends the Old Testament sacrificial system, including laws of cleanliness.