Leviticus 11:22

Of these you may eat any kind of locust, katydid, cricket, or grasshopper.

Study Bible

Of these
This phrase refers to the specific insects mentioned in the preceding verses. In the context of Leviticus 11, God provides dietary laws to the Israelites, distinguishing between clean and unclean animals. The Hebrew word used here, "מֵהֶם" (mehem), indicates a selection from a larger group, emphasizing God's intention to set apart certain creatures as permissible for consumption. This selection underscores the theme of holiness and separation that permeates Leviticus, reflecting God's desire for His people to be distinct in their practices and lifestyle.

you may eat
The permission granted here is significant, as it delineates what is acceptable for the Israelites to consume. The Hebrew verb "תֹּאכֵלוּ" (to'chelu) is in the imperfect form, suggesting an ongoing allowance. This command is not merely about dietary preferences but is deeply rooted in covenantal obedience. Eating, in this context, becomes an act of worship and adherence to God's law, reinforcing the relationship between God and His people.

any kind of locust
The locust, "אַרְבֶּה" (arbeh) in Hebrew, is one of the few insects deemed clean. Historically, locusts have been a significant food source in the Middle East, known for their nutritional value. The allowance to eat locusts highlights God's provision even in the midst of scarcity, as locusts often appeared in large numbers during times of drought or famine. This provision serves as a reminder of God's sustenance and care for His people.

katydid
The term "חָגָב" (chagav) is translated as katydid, a type of grasshopper. The inclusion of the katydid in the list of permissible insects reflects the broader category of orthopteran insects that were considered clean. This classification is not arbitrary but is based on the specific characteristics outlined in the preceding verses, such as jointed legs for hopping. The katydid, like the locust, symbolizes God's attention to detail in His creation and His laws.

cricket
The cricket, "סָלְעָם" (sol'am) in Hebrew, is another insect allowed for consumption. Crickets, like other clean insects, are rich in protein and have been a traditional food source in various cultures. The mention of crickets in the dietary laws illustrates the practicality and wisdom of God's commands, providing for the physical needs of His people while maintaining spiritual purity.

or grasshopper
The grasshopper, "חָרְגֹּל" (chargol), completes the list of clean insects. Grasshoppers, similar to locusts and crickets, are abundant and nutritious. The inclusion of grasshoppers emphasizes the theme of abundance and God's provision. In a broader theological context, the permission to eat these insects can be seen as a metaphor for God's grace, allowing His people to partake in His creation with gratitude and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

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

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

3. Mount Sinai
The place where God delivered the laws to Moses, including dietary regulations.

4. Locusts, Katydids, Crickets, Grasshoppers
Specific insects mentioned as permissible for consumption under the dietary laws.

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The dietary laws were part of God's call for Israel to be holy and distinct. Holiness involves obedience and separation from practices that are not aligned with God's will.

God's Provision
The allowance of certain insects for consumption highlights God's provision and care for His people, even in the details of their diet.

Symbolism of Purity
The distinction between clean and unclean foods symbolizes the broader spiritual truth of purity and impurity in our lives.

Cultural Context
Recognize the cultural and historical context of these laws, which were specific to the Israelites and their covenant with God.

New Covenant Understanding
In Christ, the focus shifts from external adherence to dietary laws to internal purity and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11:22 reflect God's desire for His people to be set apart?

2. In what ways does the provision of permissible insects demonstrate God's care for the Israelites' needs?

3. How does the New Testament reinterpret the concept of clean and unclean foods, and what does this mean for Christians today?

4. What can we learn from the dietary laws about the importance of obedience and holiness in our own lives?

5. How can understanding the cultural context of Leviticus 11:22 help us apply its principles to our modern-day faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16
Discusses the provision of manna and quail, showing God's provision and the importance of dietary laws in Israel's history.

Matthew 3:4
Describes John the Baptist eating locusts, connecting Old Testament dietary laws to New Testament practices.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, illustrating the shift in dietary laws with the New Covenant.

Mark 7:18-19
Jesus declares all foods clean, indicating a deeper understanding of purity beyond dietary restrictions.