Leviticus 11:5

The rock badger, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you.

Study Bible

The rock badger
The term "rock badger" refers to the hyrax, a small, furry mammal native to the Middle East. In Hebrew, it is called "shaphan." The rock badger is known for its habit of living among rocks and cliffs, which provides it with protection from predators. This creature is mentioned in the Bible as an example of an animal that, despite its cud-chewing appearance, does not meet the criteria for clean animals due to its lack of a divided hoof. The rock badger's inclusion in this list highlights the importance of discernment and obedience to God's specific instructions, even when appearances might suggest otherwise.

though it chews the cud
The phrase "chews the cud" refers to the process of rumination, where an animal regurgitates partially digested food to chew it again. This characteristic is typically associated with clean animals in the Levitical law. The rock badger's behavior of chewing its food thoroughly might give the impression of cud-chewing, yet it does not meet the full criteria set by God. This serves as a reminder that outward appearances can be deceiving, and true discernment requires understanding and adhering to God's standards.

does not have a divided hoof
The requirement of a "divided hoof" is a specific criterion for an animal to be considered clean according to Levitical law. Animals with divided hooves, such as cattle and sheep, are seen as suitable for consumption. The rock badger, however, lacks this physical trait, rendering it unclean. This distinction emphasizes the importance of following God's commandments precisely, as they are given for the well-being and holiness of His people. It also illustrates the principle that God's ways and thoughts are higher than human understanding, requiring trust and obedience.

it is unclean for you
The declaration "it is unclean for you" signifies that the rock badger is not to be consumed or touched by the Israelites. The concept of "unclean" in Levitical law is not merely about physical cleanliness but is deeply tied to spiritual purity and the covenant relationship between God and His people. By adhering to these dietary laws, the Israelites were set apart from other nations, demonstrating their commitment to holiness and obedience to God's will. This verse serves as a call to believers to pursue holiness in all aspects of life, recognizing that God's instructions are given for their ultimate good and spiritual growth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites on how to live a holy life.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws of clean and unclean animals were given as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. Rock Badger
A small, herbivorous mammal mentioned in the dietary laws, considered unclean because it does not have a divided hoof.

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

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

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The dietary laws, including the prohibition of the rock badger, were given to set Israel apart as a holy nation. Holiness involves obedience and distinction from worldly practices.

Symbolism of Clean and Unclean
The distinction between clean and unclean animals symbolizes the separation between holy and unholy living. Believers are called to discernment in their daily choices.

Cultural and Historical Context
Recognizing the cultural and historical context of these laws helps us understand their purpose and relevance for the Israelites, and how they point to deeper spiritual truths.

Freedom in Christ
While the dietary laws are not binding on Christians today, they remind us of the freedom we have in Christ and the responsibility to use that freedom wisely.

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

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the cultural context of Leviticus 11:5 help us appreciate the significance of the dietary laws for the Israelites?

2. In what ways do the dietary laws in Leviticus point to the broader theme of holiness in the Bible?

3. How can the principle of distinguishing between clean and unclean be applied to our spiritual lives today?

4. What does the New Testament teach about dietary laws, and how does this affect our understanding of Leviticus 11:5?

5. How can we balance the freedom we have in Christ with the call to live a holy and distinct life in today's world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:29-30
Discusses God's provision of food for humans and animals, establishing the initial dietary guidelines.

Deuteronomy 14:7
Reiterates the dietary laws, including the prohibition of eating the rock badger, emphasizing consistency in God's instructions.

Acts 10:9-16
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, which signifies the removal of dietary restrictions and the inclusion of Gentiles in the New Covenant.

Romans 14:14-20
Paul discusses the freedom in Christ regarding food, emphasizing that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it is unclean.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Calls believers to be holy in all conduct, reflecting the holiness laws given to Israel.