Deuteronomy 14:8

as well as the pig; though it has a divided hoof, it does not chew the cud. It is unclean for you. You must not eat its meat or touch its carcass.

Study Bible

And the pig
The Hebrew word for "pig" is "חֲזִיר" (chazir). In ancient Israel, pigs were considered unclean animals, not only because of their dietary habits but also due to their association with pagan rituals and uncleanliness. The pig symbolizes indulgence and impurity, contrasting with the holiness God desires for His people. This distinction sets the Israelites apart from surrounding nations, emphasizing their unique covenant relationship with God.

is unclean for you
The term "unclean" in Hebrew is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which signifies ritual impurity. This concept is central to the Levitical laws, where certain animals are deemed unfit for consumption or sacrifice. The designation of animals as clean or unclean is not merely about physical health but about spiritual obedience and separation from pagan practices. It reflects God's call for His people to live distinctively holy lives.

because it has a split hoof
The split hoof is a physical characteristic that, in itself, is not sufficient to make an animal clean. The Hebrew word for "split" is "שָׁסַע" (shasa), meaning divided or cloven. This physical trait is part of the criteria for clean animals, but it must be accompanied by the ability to chew the cud. The split hoof symbolizes discernment and separation, qualities that God desires in His people.

but does not chew the cud
Chewing the cud, or "גֵּרָה" (gerah) in Hebrew, refers to the process of ruminating, which is a characteristic of clean animals. This process symbolizes meditation and reflection on God's Word, a practice that is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. The pig's failure to chew the cud represents a lack of spiritual reflection and discernment, making it unfit for consumption.

You are not to eat their meat
The prohibition against eating pig meat is a direct command from God, emphasizing obedience and submission to His will. The Hebrew word for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which implies consumption and assimilation. By abstaining from unclean foods, the Israelites demonstrate their commitment to God's covenant and their desire to remain pure and holy.

or touch their carcasses
Touching the carcass of an unclean animal, "נְבֵלָה" (nevelah) in Hebrew, results in ritual impurity. This command underscores the importance of maintaining purity in all aspects of life, not just in diet. It serves as a reminder that holiness involves both actions and associations, and that God's people must be vigilant in avoiding anything that could defile them spiritually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, who is delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving these dietary laws as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Promised Land
The destination of the Israelites, where they are to live as a holy nation, distinct from surrounding peoples.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the Law from God, which includes dietary regulations.

5. Canaan
The land where the Israelites are headed, filled with nations whose practices they are to avoid.

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 to obey God's laws as an expression of their covenant relationship. Similarly, our obedience to God reflects our love and commitment to Him.

Understanding Context
While the dietary laws were specific to the Israelites, understanding their purpose helps us appreciate the broader biblical account of God's plan for His people.

Freedom in Christ
In the New Testament, believers are not bound by the Old Testament dietary laws. However, we are called to exercise our freedom responsibly, considering the conscience of others.

Spiritual Cleanliness
The focus shifts from physical cleanliness to spiritual cleanliness in the New Testament, emphasizing the importance of purity in heart and actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Deuteronomy 14:8 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, even though we are not bound by Old Testament dietary laws?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on food and purity (e.g., Acts 10, Mark 7) influence our understanding of Deuteronomy 14:8?

4. What are some practical ways we can exercise our freedom in Christ while being considerate of others' convictions, as discussed in Romans 14?

5. How can we ensure that our focus remains on spiritual cleanliness and purity of heart in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
This chapter provides a more detailed list of clean and unclean animals, reinforcing the dietary laws given in Deuteronomy.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of the sheet with unclean animals, where God declares all foods clean, showing a shift in the New Testament understanding of dietary laws.

Mark 7
Jesus teaches that it is not what goes into a person that defiles them, but what comes out, indicating a deeper spiritual principle beyond dietary laws.

Romans 14
Paul discusses the freedom believers have in Christ regarding food, emphasizing love and consideration for others in matters of personal conviction.