Leviticus 11:7

And the pig, though it has a split hoof completely divided, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.

Study Bible

And the pig
The Hebrew word for "pig" is "חֲזִיר" (chazir). In ancient Israel, pigs were considered unclean animals, not only because of their dietary habits but also due to their association with pagan rituals and cultures surrounding Israel. The pig is often seen as a symbol of impurity and indulgence, contrasting with the holiness God calls His people to embody. This distinction serves as a reminder of the call to be set apart, to live in a way that reflects God's holiness.

though it has a split hoof completely divided
The phrase "split hoof completely divided" refers to one of the criteria for clean animals in Levitical law. The split hoof is a physical characteristic that, in other animals, signifies suitability for consumption. The Hebrew word for "hoof" is "פַּרְסָה" (parsa), and the emphasis on it being "completely divided" underscores the thoroughness of the physical requirement. This detail highlights the importance of discernment and the need to look beyond mere appearances when determining what is acceptable and holy.

it does not chew the cud
"Chew the cud" translates from the Hebrew "גֵּרָה" (gerah), which refers to the process of ruminating, a characteristic of clean animals. This process symbolizes meditation and reflection, qualities that are spiritually beneficial. The pig's failure to chew the cud signifies a lack of internal purity and reflection, serving as a metaphor for the importance of internalizing God's Word and living it out in daily life.

it is unclean for you
The term "unclean" in Hebrew is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which denotes ritual impurity. This designation is not merely about physical cleanliness but about spiritual and communal separation from God. The phrase "for you" personalizes the command, indicating that this law is specifically for the Israelites, God's chosen people. It serves as a call to holiness, urging believers to maintain spiritual purity and to avoid influences that could lead them away from God's path.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
- The chosen people of God, to whom the laws of clean and unclean animals were given.

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

4. The Pig
- An animal specifically mentioned as unclean due to its characteristics.

5. The Wilderness
- The setting where the Israelites received and were expected to follow these laws.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The dietary laws, including the prohibition of eating pork, were given to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation. This separation was a physical reminder of their unique relationship with God.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were called to obey God's laws, even when the reasons were not fully understood. This teaches us the importance of trusting and obeying God's Word.

Symbolism of Purity
The distinction between clean and unclean animals symbolizes the need for spiritual purity. Believers are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Cultural and Historical Context
Understanding the cultural and historical context of these laws helps us appreciate their significance for the Israelites and how they point to deeper spiritual truths.

New Covenant Understanding
In Christ, the ceremonial laws, including dietary restrictions, are fulfilled. Believers are called to focus on the purity of the heart and mind.

Bible Study Questions

1. What was the purpose of the dietary laws given to the Israelites, and how did they serve to set them apart from other nations?

2. How does the prohibition of eating pork in Leviticus 11:7 relate to the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

3. In what ways does the New Testament reinterpret the concept of clean and unclean, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles?

4. How can the principle of obedience to God's commands, as seen in Leviticus 11:7, be applied to our lives today?

5. What lessons can we learn from the dietary laws about the importance of spiritual purity and how can we apply these lessons in our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 7
Discusses clean and unclean animals in the context of Noah's Ark, showing the concept predates the Mosaic Law.

Deuteronomy 14
Reiterates the dietary laws, emphasizing the importance of holiness and separation.

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

Mark 7
Jesus' teaching on what truly defiles a person, pointing to the heart rather than dietary restrictions.

Romans 14
Discusses Christian liberty and the principle of not causing others to stumble over dietary practices.