Leviticus 11:47

You must distinguish between the unclean and the clean, between animals that may be eaten and those that may not.'"

Study Bible

to distinguish
The Hebrew root for "distinguish" is "בדל" (badal), which means to separate, divide, or make a distinction. This concept is central to the holiness code in Leviticus, emphasizing the need for discernment in the life of the Israelites. The act of distinguishing is not merely about physical separation but also about spiritual discernment, reflecting God's call for His people to be set apart in purity and holiness.

between the unclean and the clean
The terms "unclean" (טמא, tamei) and "clean" (טהור, tahor) are pivotal in Levitical law. These designations go beyond physical cleanliness and touch on ritual purity, which was essential for maintaining a proper relationship with God. The distinction between clean and unclean animals served as a daily reminder of the Israelites' covenant with God and their need to live according to His standards. Historically, these laws also had practical health benefits, but their primary purpose was to teach obedience and holiness.

between the living creatures
The phrase "living creatures" (חיה, chayah) refers to all forms of life that move and breathe. In the context of Leviticus, it underscores the breadth of God's creation and His sovereignty over it. The Israelites were called to recognize God's order in creation and to respect the boundaries He established. This respect for life is a reflection of the Creator's wisdom and the inherent value He places on all living things.

that may be eaten
The permission to eat certain animals (אכל, akal) is a divine allowance that underscores God's provision for His people. The dietary laws were not arbitrary but were given for the well-being of the Israelites, both physically and spiritually. By adhering to these laws, the Israelites demonstrated their trust in God's provision and their commitment to His covenant.

and those that may not be eaten
The prohibition against eating certain animals serves as a boundary marker for the Israelites (לא אכל, lo akal). This restriction was a test of obedience and a means of preserving the distinct identity of God's people. It also served as a constant reminder of the need for purity and the importance of living according to God's commands. The dietary laws were a tangible expression of the Israelites' dedication to holiness and their separation from the practices of surrounding nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
Traditionally considered the author of Leviticus, Moses is the leader of the Israelites and the mediator of God's laws to them.

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

3. Clean and Unclean Animals
The focus of Leviticus 11, where God distinguishes between animals that are permissible to eat and those that are not, as part of the Israelites' dietary laws.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Distinction
Leviticus 11:47 emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the clean and unclean, symbolizing the call for God's people to be holy and set apart.

Obedience to God's Commands
The dietary laws were a test of obedience and trust in God's wisdom, teaching us the importance of following God's commands even when we do not fully understand them.

Spiritual Discernment
Just as the Israelites were to discern between clean and unclean, Christians are called to discern between what is spiritually beneficial and harmful in their lives.

Transformation through Christ
While the dietary laws were specific to the Israelites, they point to a greater spiritual truth fulfilled in Christ, who purifies us from within and calls us to live holy lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of clean and unclean animals in Leviticus 11:47 relate to the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways can the principle of distinguishing between clean and unclean be applied to our daily decisions and lifestyle choices today?

3. How does Peter's vision in Acts 10 challenge or reinforce the understanding of Leviticus 11:47 in the context of the New Testament?

4. What are some modern-day "unclean" influences that Christians should be discerning about, and how can we apply the principle of spiritual discernment in our lives?

5. How does Jesus' teaching in Mark 7 about what defiles a person help us understand the deeper spiritual significance of the laws in Leviticus 11?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:24-25
This passage describes God's creation of animals, establishing His authority over all living creatures, which is foundational to understanding the dietary laws in Leviticus.

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

Mark 7:14-23
Jesus teaches that it is not what goes into a person that defiles them, but what comes out, indicating a shift from external to internal purity.