Leviticus 11:16

the ostrich, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk,

Study Bible

the ostrich
The Hebrew word for "ostrich" is "יַעֲנָה" (ya'anah), which is derived from a root meaning "to cry out" or "to lament," reflecting the bird's mournful call. In the ancient Near East, the ostrich was known for its speed and its ability to survive in harsh desert conditions. Its inclusion in the list of unclean birds may symbolize the separation from the wild and untamed aspects of creation that are not aligned with the holiness God desires for His people. The ostrich's inability to fly, despite its bird classification, can also serve as a metaphor for those who are grounded in worldly concerns rather than soaring in spiritual pursuits.

the owl
The Hebrew term "תִּנְשֶׁמֶת" (tinshemet) is often translated as "owl," though its exact identification is uncertain. Owls are typically associated with desolation and ruin in biblical literature, often inhabiting abandoned places. This bird's nocturnal nature and haunting call may symbolize spiritual darkness or the absence of divine light. In a broader sense, the owl's presence in the list of unclean animals serves as a reminder to avoid spiritual desolation and to seek the light of God's presence.

the gull
The word "שַׁחַף" (shachaf) is translated as "gull," a bird commonly found near water bodies. Gulls are scavengers, often feeding on carrion and refuse, which may contribute to their classification as unclean. This characteristic can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual impurity, where one feeds on the refuse of sin rather than the nourishing word of God. The gull's adaptability and opportunistic nature might also serve as a caution against spiritual complacency and the temptation to compromise one's faith for worldly gain.

any kind of hawk
The phrase "any kind of hawk" translates the Hebrew "לְמִינֵהוּ" (leminahu), indicating various species within the hawk family. Hawks are birds of prey, known for their keen eyesight and hunting prowess. In the biblical context, birds of prey often symbolize destruction and judgment. Their inclusion in the list of unclean animals may serve as a warning against predatory behavior and the pursuit of power at the expense of others. Spiritually, it calls believers to cultivate gentleness and humility, aligning with the character of Christ rather than the aggressive nature of a hawk.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the law, during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

4. Clean and Unclean Animals
The broader context of Leviticus 11, which outlines dietary laws distinguishing between clean and unclean animals.

5. The Promised Land
The ultimate destination of the Israelites, where they were to live as a holy nation, set apart by God's laws.

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The dietary laws, including the list of unclean birds, were given to teach the Israelites about holiness and being set apart for God. As Christians, we are called to live holy lives, distinct from the world.

Symbolism of Unclean Animals
The unclean birds, such as the owl and the gull, often symbolize desolation and scavenging. This can remind us to avoid spiritual desolation and to seek purity in our lives.

Fulfillment in Christ
While the dietary laws were specific to the Israelites, they point to a greater spiritual truth fulfilled in Christ. In Him, we find true cleanliness and holiness, transcending the old covenant's restrictions.

Discernment in Daily Life
Just as the Israelites had to discern between clean and unclean, Christians are called to discern what is spiritually beneficial and what is not, in our daily choices and actions.

Community and Identity
The dietary laws helped define the identity of the Israelite community. Similarly, our practices and values as Christians should reflect our identity in Christ and our belonging to His body, the Church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11, including the list of unclean birds, help us understand the concept of holiness in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of the law in Christ, as seen in Acts 10, change our understanding of clean and unclean?

3. How can the symbolism of unclean birds, such as the owl and the gull, inform our spiritual lives today?

4. What practical steps can we take to discern between what is spiritually clean and unclean in our daily lives?

5. How does our identity as Christians, similar to the Israelites' identity shaped by the law, influence our community and personal practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:21
This verse describes God's creation of birds, establishing their place in the created order, which is relevant to understanding why certain birds are considered unclean.

Deuteronomy 14:12-18
This passage parallels Leviticus 11, listing unclean birds, reinforcing the dietary laws for the Israelites.

Acts 10:9-16
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, which signifies the removal of dietary restrictions for Christians, showing the fulfillment of the law in Christ.

Isaiah 34:11
Mentions the owl and other birds in a context of desolation, symbolizing judgment, which can be linked to the unclean status of certain birds.

Romans 14:14
Paul discusses the concept of clean and unclean in the context of Christian liberty, emphasizing that nothing is unclean in itself.