◄ Leviticus 11 ►
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Clean and Unclean Animals (Deuteronomy 14:1–21; Acts 10:9–16) 1The LORD spoke again to Moses and Aaron, telling them, 2“Say to the Israelites, ‘Of all the beasts of the earth, these ones you may eat: 3You may eat any animal that has a split hoof completely divided and that chews the cud. 4But of those that only chew the cud or only have a divided hoof, you are not to eat the following:a The camel, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you. 5The rock badger,b though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you. 6The rabbit, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you. 7And the pig, though it has a split hoof completely divided, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you. 8You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you. 9Of all the creatures that live in the water, whether in the seas or in the streams, you may eat anything with fins and scales. 10But the following among all the teeming life and creatures in the water are detestable to you: everything in the seas or streams that does not have fins and scales. 11They shall be an abomination to you; you must not eat their meat, and you must detest their carcasses. 12Everything in the water that does not have fins and scales shall be detestable to you. 13Additionally, you are to detest the following birds, and they must not be eaten because they are detestable: the eagle, the bearded vulture, the black vulture, 14the kite, any kind of falcon, 15any kind of raven, 16the ostrich,c the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, 17the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, 18the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, 19the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe, and the bat. 20All flying insects that walk on all fours are detestable to you. 21However, you may eat the following kinds of flying insects that walk on all fours: those having jointed legs above their feet for hopping on the ground. 22Of these you may eat any kind of locust, katydid, cricket, or grasshopper. 23All other flying insects that have four legs are detestable to you. 24These creatures will make you unclean. Whoever touches their carcasses will be unclean until evening, 25and whoever picks up one of their carcasses must wash his clothes, and he will be unclean until evening. 26Every animal with hooves not completely dividedd or that does not chew the cud is unclean for you. Whoever touches any of them will be unclean. 27All the four-footed animals that walk on their paws are unclean for you; whoever touches their carcasses will be unclean until evening, 28and anyone who picks up a carcass must wash his clothes, and he will be unclean until evening. They are unclean for you. 29The following creatures that move along the ground are unclean for you: the mole, the mouse, any kind of great lizard, 30the gecko, the monitor lizard, the common lizard, the skink, and the chameleon. 31These animals are unclean for you among all the crawling creatures. Whoever touches them when they are dead shall be unclean until evening. 32When one of them dies and falls on something, that article becomes unclean; any article of wood, clothing, leather, sackcloth, or any implement used for work must be rinsed with water and will remain unclean until evening; then it will be clean. 33If any of them falls into a clay pot, everything in it will be unclean; you must break the pot. 34Any food coming into contact with water from that pot will be unclean, and any drink in such a container will be unclean. 35Anything upon which one of their carcasses falls will be unclean. If it is an oven or cooking pot, it must be smashed; it is unclean and will remain unclean for you. 36Nevertheless, a spring or cistern containing water will remain clean, but one who touches a carcass in it will be unclean. 37If a carcass falls on any seed for sowing, the seed is clean; 38but if water has been put on the seed and a carcass falls on it, it is unclean for you. 39If an animal that you may eat dies, anyone who touches the carcass will be unclean until evening. 40Whoever eats from the carcass must wash his clothes and will be unclean until evening, and anyone who picks up the carcass must wash his clothes and will be unclean until evening. 41Every creature that moves along the ground is detestable; it must not be eaten. 42Do not eat any creature that moves along the ground, whether it crawls on its belly or walks on four or more feet; for such creatures are detestable. 43Do not defile yourselves by any crawling creature; do not become unclean or defiled by them. 44For I am the LORD your God; consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy.e You must not defile yourselves by any creature that crawls along the ground. 45For I am the LORD, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt so that I would be your God; therefore be holy, because I am holy. 46This is the law regarding animals, birds, all living creatures that move in the water, and all creatures that crawl along the ground. 47You must distinguish between the unclean and the clean, between animals that may be eaten and those that may not.’” Footnotes: 4 a The precise identification of some of the birds and animals in this chapter is uncertain. 5 b Or The coney or The hyrax 16 c Literally the daughter of the ostrich or the daughter of the owl 26 d Literally a split hoof not completely divided 44 e Here and in verse 45; cited in 1 Peter 1:16 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Leviticus 11 Summary Clean and Unclean Animals Verses 1–8 – Clean and Unclean Land Animals The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron, laying out which four-footed animals Israel may eat. Animals that both chew the cud and have a split hoof—such as the ox, sheep, and goat—are permitted. Creatures that meet only one of those marks, like the camel (chews the cud but no split hoof) or the pig (split hoof but does not chew cud), are declared unclean. Touching their dead bodies renders a person unclean until evening. Verses 9–12 – Creatures of Water From the seas and rivers, anything with fins and scales may be eaten. All others—shellfish, eels, sharks—are “detestable.” Their carcasses must not be handled; whoever touches them becomes unclean. Verses 13–23 – Birds and Flying Insects A short list of forbidden birds follows—eagle, vulture, raven, owl, and others—mostly scavengers and predators. Among winged insects, only those with jointed legs for hopping (locust, katydid, cricket, grasshopper) may be eaten; the rest are unclean. Verses 24–40 – Carcasses and Contact Touching the dead body of any unclean creature defiles a person until evening, requiring washing of clothes and body. Items of daily life—pots, ovens, grain, seed—become unclean if a carcass falls on or into them; some must be rinsed, others destroyed or discarded. Verses 41–45 – Swarming Things and the Call to Be Holy Every creeping thing that moves along the ground is forbidden as food. The reason is stated plainly: “For I am the LORD who brought you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God. Therefore be holy, because I am holy” (v 45). Verses 46–47 – Conclusion and Purpose The chapter closes by summarizing that these regulations enable Israel “to distinguish between the unclean and the clean, and between the living creatures that may be eaten and those that may not.” In this passage, the Lord reveals to Moses and Aaron the specific animals the Israelites are permitted to consume and those they are prohibited from eating. The guidelines set forth in these verses denote more than mere dietary restrictions; they are part of a larger tapestry of holiness and obedience to God's laws. Historical Context In the Ancient Near East, diet often indicated allegiance to a deity. By setting Israel apart at the dinner table, the LORD made everyday meals a reminder of covenant identity. While surrounding nations offered unclean animals in pagan rituals, Israel’s menu proclaimed they served a different God. Structure and Flow of the Chapter 1. Land Animals (vv 1–8) 2. Water Creatures (vv 9–12) 3. Birds & Flying Insects (vv 13–23) 4. Carcass Contamination (vv 24–40) 5. Creeping Things & Holiness Appeal (vv 41–45) 6. Summary Statement (vv 46–47) The order mirrors creation in Genesis 1 (land, water, sky), hinting that God’s original design guides these distinctions. Why These Animals? Practical and Moral Reasons • Health safeguards: Animals that carry more parasites (pigs) or toxins (shellfish) were excluded in a time without refrigeration. • Moral symbolism: Predatory birds and scavengers picture death and uncleanness, unsuitable for a nation called to celebrate life. • Distinguishing mark: By obeying in the small matter of food, Israel practiced daily submission, preparing hearts for weightier commands (cf. Luke 16:10). Holiness in Body and Life The Hebrew word for “holy” means “set apart.” Food laws brought holiness into the mundane. First Corinthians 10:31 echoes the lesson: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God”. Connections to Genesis and Creation Order Genesis 7 distinguishes clean from unclean animals before the Flood, showing that the categories pre-date Moses. Adam received a food command (Genesis 2:16-17); Israel now receives a national version. Both point to the Creator’s authority over diet and desire for obedience. Echoes in the Prophets Isaiah 65:4 condemns those “who eat the flesh of pigs,” illustrating continued concern for purity. Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 4:14) shows the prophet protesting unclean food, reflecting Leviticus 11’s enduring standard during exile. Fulfillment and Expansion in the New Covenant Acts 10 records Peter’s rooftop vision: “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” (v 15). The vision first applies to Gentile inclusion (Cornelius) but also removes the ceremonial barrier of diet (Mark 7:18-19). Yet the principle of discernment remains: believers are to guard what they take in, whether food or ideas (Philippians 4:8). Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Excavations at Tel Lachish reveal trash pits devoid of pig bones during Judah’s monarchy, confirming adherence to the pork ban. • Egyptian banquet scenes feature fish without scales and wild fowl common to the Nile delta—foods Leviticus 11 forbids, further distinguishing Israel from its former slave-masters. Living Out the Principle Today • Gratitude: Every meal can be an act of worship (1 Timothy 4:4–5). • Self-control: Saying “no” to certain foods trained Israel—and trains believers—to say “no” to sin (Titus 2:12). • Witness: Distinct choices still invite questions (1 Peter 3:15). Whether someone keeps or sets aside the Mosaic diet, the motive should be love for God and neighbor (Romans 14:6). Key Takeaway Leviticus 11 shows that the LORD cares about the details of daily life. His people are called to be recognizably different, not for difference’s sake, but to reflect His own purity and goodness to a watching world. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 1:15-16 But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.' Acts 10:13-15 Peter’s vision of clean and unclean animals, illustrating the removal of dietary restrictions and the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan. Matthew 15:11 Jesus teaches that it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth, emphasizing the importance of inner purity. Teaching Points Holiness and Distinction Leviticus 11 emphasizes the call to holiness. God’s people were to be distinct from the surrounding nations. For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, because I am holy (Leviticus 11:44). Clean vs. Unclean The chapter categorizes animals into clean and unclean, affecting what the Israelites could eat. This distinction was a daily reminder of their covenant relationship with God. Obedience to God’s Commands The dietary laws required the Israelites to trust and obey God, even when the reasons for the laws were not fully understood. Symbolism of Purity The clean and unclean animals symbolized spiritual purity and impurity, teaching the Israelites about the importance of moral and spiritual cleanliness. Practical Applications Pursue Holiness Just as the Israelites were called to be holy, Christians are called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness. Consider how your daily choices set you apart as a follower of Christ. Obedience in Faith Trust in God’s wisdom and obey His commands, even when they don’t make immediate sense. Reflect on areas in your life where you need to exercise faith-driven obedience. Spiritual Cleanliness Evaluate your life for areas of spiritual impurity. Confess and seek God’s cleansing to maintain a pure heart before Him. People 1. Moses Primary recipient of God's laws, including dietary instructions in Leviticus 11. He communicated these laws to the Israelites. 2. Aaron Moses' brother and the high priest of Israel. He was instrumental in teaching and ensuring the observance of these laws among the Israelites. 3. Priests of Israel Responsible for interpreting and applying these dietary laws to the community, ensuring ceremonial cleanliness in worship and daily life. 4. Israelite Community The audience for whom these laws were given. They were expected to follow these dietary restrictions as part of their covenant relationship with God. Places 1. The Wilderness While not explicitly mentioned in Leviticus 11, the context of the book is set during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. This setting is crucial as it is where God delivered the laws to Moses. 2. The Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle) Again, not directly mentioned in Leviticus 11, but the Tent of Meeting is the central place where God communicated with Moses and where the Israelites received the laws. The Hebrew term for the Tabernacle is "מִשְׁכַּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." Leviticus 11 does not provide specific geographical locations but rather focuses on the laws given to the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. The emphasis is on the spiritual and communal aspects of adhering to God's commandments. Events 1. Introduction of Dietary Laws The chapter begins with the LORD speaking to Moses and Aaron, instructing them to convey the dietary laws to the Israelites. This establishes the context for the subsequent regulations (Leviticus 11:1-2). 2. Land Animals The LORD specifies which land animals are clean and may be eaten. Animals that both chew the cud and have a split hoof are considered clean (Leviticus 11:3). The Hebrew terms "מַעֲלֵה גֵרָה" (ma'aleh gerah, "chew the cud") and "מַפְרֶסֶת פַּרְסָה" (mafreseṯ parsah, "split hoof") are key criteria. 3. Unclean Land Animals Certain animals are deemed unclean because they do not meet both criteria. Examples include the camel, rabbit, and pig (Leviticus 11:4-7). 4. Aquatic Creatures The LORD describes which aquatic creatures are clean. Those with fins and scales may be eaten, while others are considered detestable (Leviticus 11:9-12). 5. Birds A list of birds that are not to be eaten is provided, including the eagle, vulture, and raven. These birds are considered detestable (Leviticus 11:13-19). 6. Flying Insects The LORD specifies that certain flying insects that walk on all fours are unclean, except those that have jointed legs for hopping, such as locusts (Leviticus 11:20-23). 7. Unclean Animals and Carcasses Instructions are given regarding the handling of unclean animals and their carcasses. Touching them results in uncleanness until evening (Leviticus 11:24-28). 8. Creeping Creatures Various creeping creatures are listed as unclean, including the mole, mouse, and lizard (Leviticus 11:29-30). 9. Purification from Uncleanness The chapter outlines the process of purification for those who become unclean by touching carcasses or other unclean things (Leviticus 11:31-40). 10. Holiness and Separation The LORD concludes by emphasizing the importance of holiness and separation from uncleanness, as He is holy. This underscores the spiritual significance of the dietary laws (Leviticus 11:44-45). 11. Summary of Dietary Laws The chapter ends with a summary statement, reiterating the purpose of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals (Leviticus 11:46-47). Lessons from Leviticus 11 1. Discernment in Daily Choices Leviticus 11 teaches us the importance of discernment in our daily choices. Just as the Israelites were instructed to distinguish between clean and unclean animals, we are called to make wise decisions that honor God. "You must distinguish between the clean and the unclean, between animals that may be eaten and those that may not" (Leviticus 11:47). This principle encourages us to evaluate our actions and ensure they align with our faith and values. 2. Holiness in Lifestyle The chapter emphasizes the call to holiness, reminding us that our lifestyle should reflect our commitment to God. "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy" (Leviticus 11:44). This is a powerful reminder that our actions, words, and thoughts should be set apart for God's glory, influencing every aspect of our lives. 3. Obedience to God's Commands Leviticus 11 highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they may seem challenging or unclear. The Israelites were given specific dietary laws to follow, teaching us that obedience is a form of worship and trust in God's wisdom. "These are the regulations regarding animals, birds, every living thing that moves in the water, and every creature that crawls on the ground" (Leviticus 11:46). 4. The Significance of Purity Purity is a recurring theme in Leviticus 11, reminding us of the significance of maintaining spiritual and moral cleanliness. "You must not make yourselves unclean by any creature that swarms" (Leviticus 11:43). This lesson encourages us to guard our hearts and minds against influences that could lead us away from God's path. 5. Respect for God's Creation The chapter also teaches us to respect God's creation by recognizing the order and purpose He has established. By following the dietary laws, the Israelites acknowledged God's sovereignty over all living things. This respect for creation can inspire us to be good stewards of the environment and appreciate the beauty and diversity of life. 6. The Role of Tradition Leviticus 11 underscores the role of tradition in maintaining a community's identity and faith. The dietary laws served as a constant reminder of the Israelites' covenant with God. Similarly, our traditions can help us stay connected to our faith and heritage, providing a sense of belonging and continuity. 7. The Importance of Community Standards The dietary laws in Leviticus 11 were not just personal guidelines but community standards that unified the Israelites. "These are the creatures you may eat among all the animals that are on the earth" (Leviticus 11:2). This teaches us the value of shared beliefs and practices in building a strong, supportive community of faith. 8. Trust in God's Provision By following the dietary laws, the Israelites demonstrated trust in God's provision. They relied on Him to provide what was necessary for their sustenance and well-being. This lesson encourages us to trust in God's provision in our own lives, knowing that He cares for us and will meet our needs. 9. The Call to Be Set Apart Leviticus 11 calls us to be set apart from the world, living in a way that reflects our unique relationship with God. "You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own" (Leviticus 11:45). This is a reminder that our lives should be a testimony to God's transformative power. 10. The Foreshadowing of Christ Finally, Leviticus 11 foreshadows the coming of Christ, who fulfills the law and offers us true spiritual cleansing. While the dietary laws were a temporary measure, Jesus provides eternal salvation and purity through His sacrifice. This chapter points us to the ultimate source of holiness and redemption found in Christ alone. Topics 1. Introduction to Dietary Laws (Leviticus 11:1-2) God speaks to Moses and Aaron, instructing them to convey the dietary laws to the Israelites. The chapter begins with a divine command, emphasizing the importance of holiness and obedience. 2. Land Animals (Leviticus 11:3-8) The criteria for clean land animals are specified: they must have a split hoof and chew the cud. Examples of unclean animals include the camel, hyrax, rabbit, and pig. The Hebrew terms "פרסה" (parsa, hoof) and "מעלה גרה" (ma'aleh gerah, chew the cud) are key identifiers. 3. Aquatic Animals (Leviticus 11:9-12) Clean aquatic creatures must have fins and scales. This section distinguishes between permissible and forbidden sea life, emphasizing the Hebrew words "סנפיר" (snapir, fins) and "קשקשת" (qaskeset, scales). 4. Birds (Leviticus 11:13-19) A list of unclean birds is provided, including the eagle, vulture, and raven. The focus is on birds of prey and scavengers, which are considered impure. 5. Insects (Leviticus 11:20-23) Flying insects that walk on all fours are generally unclean, except for those that have jointed legs for hopping, such as locusts, katydids, crickets, and grasshoppers. 6. Unclean Animals and Contamination (Leviticus 11:24-28) Contact with the carcasses of unclean animals results in impurity. This section outlines the procedures for handling such contamination, emphasizing ritual cleanliness. 7. Creeping Creatures (Leviticus 11:29-38) Various small animals that move on the ground, such as moles, rats, and lizards, are deemed unclean. The text details the impact of their carcasses on objects and food, highlighting the need for purity. 8. Purification after Contact (Leviticus 11:39-40) Instructions are given for purification after touching the carcasses of clean animals that die naturally, underscoring the importance of maintaining ritual purity. 9. Further Instructions on Creeping Creatures (Leviticus 11:41-43) A reiteration of the prohibition against consuming or touching certain creeping creatures, reinforcing the call to holiness. 10. Call to Holiness (Leviticus 11:44-45) God commands the Israelites to be holy as He is holy, linking dietary laws to the broader covenantal relationship. The Hebrew word "קדוש" (qadosh, holy) is central to this call. 11. Summary of Dietary Laws (Leviticus 11:46-47) The chapter concludes with a summary, emphasizing the distinction between clean and unclean, and the importance of discernment in maintaining holiness. Themes 1. Distinction Between Clean and Unclean Animals Leviticus 11 outlines which animals are considered clean and unclean for consumption. The chapter begins with God speaking to Moses and Aaron, providing specific criteria for land animals, sea creatures, birds, and insects. The Hebrew word for "clean" (טָהוֹר, tahor) and "unclean" (טָמֵא, tamei) are central to understanding these distinctions. 2. Holiness and Separation The dietary laws emphasize the theme of holiness and separation from other nations. In verses 44-45, God calls the Israelites to be holy because He is holy. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "קדוש" (kadosh), meaning set apart or sacred. 3. Obedience to Divine Command The chapter underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. The Israelites are instructed to follow these laws as a demonstration of their covenant relationship with God. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew understanding of "שמע" (shema), meaning to hear and obey. 4. Health and Hygiene While not explicitly stated, the dietary laws can be seen as promoting health and hygiene. The restrictions may have practical benefits, protecting the Israelites from diseases associated with certain animals. 5. Symbolism of Purity The clean and unclean distinctions symbolize spiritual purity and impurity. The physical act of eating is linked to spiritual cleanliness, reflecting the broader biblical theme of purity in worship and daily life. 6. Identity and Community These dietary laws help define the identity of the Israelite community, setting them apart from other cultures. The adherence to these laws fosters a sense of belonging and unity among the people of Israel. 7. Divine Authority and Sovereignty The chapter reinforces God's authority and sovereignty over creation. By dictating what is permissible to eat, God asserts His control and care over the lives of His people. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Holiness Ask God to help you live a life that reflects His holiness and sets you apart for His purposes. Seek Obedience Pray for the strength and faith to obey God’s commands, even when they challenge your understanding. Desire for Purity Request God’s help in identifying and cleansing any areas of spiritual impurity in your life. As we study Leviticus 11, let us remember that God’s call to holiness is timeless. May we strive to live lives that honor Him, reflecting His purity and love to the world around us. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Leviticus 11:5–6, it says that hares chew the cud. Why does the text claim this biological inaccuracy? 2. In Leviticus 11:20–23, insects are described as having four legs. How do we reconcile this with modern entomology? 3. If Leviticus 11 is God’s eternal command, why does Acts 10:9–16 appear to contradict these dietary laws? 4. In Leviticus 11:12, all creatures without fins and scales are forbidden. How can this sweeping restriction be justified scientifically? 5. Why do these verses prescribe certain purity laws for ancient Israel that seem inconsistent with Jesus’s teachings in Mark 7:19? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God provided such detailed dietary laws to the Israelites? 2. How does distinguishing between clean and unclean animals symbolize the call to holiness? 3. In what ways does the concept of clean and unclean apply to modern believers? 4. How does following these laws demonstrate obedience to God? 5. How would you relate the idea of "not touching the carcass" to avoiding sin in today's context? 6. Do you think dietary laws were purely about physical health, or was there a spiritual aspect to them? 7. How might these laws have served to maintain the Israelites' distinct identity? 8. How do these dietary laws reflect God's authority? 9. How does the act of distinguishing between clean and unclean reflect wisdom and discernment? 10. Why does God link the observance of these laws to the Israelites' liberation from Egypt? 11. In what ways are modern Christians called to be "clean" and "unclean" in their spiritual lives? 12. How can this passage inspire believers today to live a life of obedience and holiness? 13. Do you see any parallels between the detailed observances commanded in these laws and the attention to detail required in the Christian walk? 14. How do these laws about physical cleanliness relate to inner, spiritual cleanliness? 15. If you were an Israelite living during this time, how would you have reacted to these laws? 16. How can we interpret and apply the command to "consecrate yourselves" in today's world? 17. If we consider sin as something unclean, how does the concept of cleansing till evening reflect repentance and forgiveness in Christianity? 18. What does this passage teach about respect and obedience towards God's commands, even when we do not fully understand them? 19. How can we discern what is "clean" and "unclean" in our daily lives today? 20. How does this passage encourage us to be mindful of what we consume, both physically and spiritually? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions