Leviticus 11:3

You may eat any animal that has a split hoof completely divided and that chews the cud.

Study Bible

You may eat
This phrase establishes a divine permission granted to the Israelites regarding their dietary practices. The Hebrew root for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which not only refers to the physical act of consuming food but also carries a broader sense of partaking or enjoying. In the context of Leviticus, this permission is not merely about sustenance but about maintaining a covenantal relationship with God through obedience to His laws. The act of eating, therefore, becomes an act of worship and obedience, reflecting a life set apart for God.

any animal
The Hebrew word for "animal" here is "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah), which generally refers to beasts or cattle. This term is significant as it encompasses a wide range of creatures, indicating that God's provision and care extend to all aspects of creation. The use of "any" suggests a broad category, yet it is immediately qualified by specific criteria, highlighting the importance of discernment and obedience in the life of the believer.

that has a split hoof completely divided
The phrase "split hoof completely divided" is a translation of the Hebrew "מַפְרֶסֶת פַּרְסָה" (mafriset parsa). The split hoof is a physical characteristic that serves as a sign of distinction and separation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, animals with split hooves were often seen as clean and suitable for consumption. This physical trait symbolizes the spiritual separation and holiness that God desires for His people. The complete division of the hoof underscores the idea of thoroughness and completeness in one's devotion and obedience to God.

and that chews the cud
The Hebrew phrase "מַעֲלַת גֵּרָה" (ma'alat gerah) refers to the process of ruminating or chewing the cud. This characteristic is not only a physical trait but also a metaphor for meditation and reflection on God's Word. Just as the animal repeatedly chews its food to extract maximum nourishment, believers are called to meditate on Scripture, allowing it to transform their lives. Historically, animals that chew the cud were considered clean because they symbolized a contemplative and discerning approach to life, aligning with the wisdom and understanding that God imparts to His people.

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 Levitical laws, including dietary regulations, as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. Mount Sinai
The location where Moses received the laws from God, including the dietary laws found in Leviticus.

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The dietary laws were part of God's call for Israel to be holy and distinct from other nations. Holiness involves obedience and separation unto God.

Symbolism of Clean and Unclean
The distinction between clean and unclean animals symbolizes the separation between holy and unholy, teaching the Israelites about purity and God's standards.

Obedience to God's Commands
The dietary laws remind us of the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when we may not fully understand the reasons behind them.

New Covenant Freedom
In Christ, believers are no longer bound by the Old Testament dietary laws, as seen in Acts 10 and Mark 7. This freedom should be exercised with consideration for others' consciences.

Spiritual Discernment
Just as the Israelites were to discern between clean and unclean, Christians are called to discern between what is spiritually beneficial and what is not.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11:3 reflect God's desire for Israel to be a distinct and holy nation?

2. In what ways do the principles behind the clean and unclean animals apply to our lives today, even though we are not bound by these dietary laws?

3. How does Peter's vision in Acts 10 change the understanding of clean and unclean animals for Christians?

4. What does Jesus' teaching in Mark 7 reveal about the nature of true defilement and purity?

5. How can we apply the principle of spiritual discernment in our daily choices, similar to how the Israelites discerned between clean and unclean animals?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 7
Discusses clean and unclean animals in the context of Noah's Ark, indicating an early understanding of these distinctions.

Deuteronomy 14
Reiterates the dietary laws, providing a parallel account to Leviticus 11.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, which signifies the removal of dietary restrictions for Christians.

Mark 7
Jesus' teaching on what truly defiles a person, emphasizing the heart over dietary laws.