Leviticus 11:8

You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you.

Study Bible

You must not eat
The Hebrew root for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which means to consume or devour. In the context of Leviticus, this command is part of the dietary laws given to the Israelites. These laws were not only about physical health but also about spiritual obedience and holiness. By abstaining from certain foods, the Israelites were reminded of their distinct identity as God's chosen people, set apart from the surrounding nations. This command underscores the importance of obedience to God's instructions as a demonstration of faith and commitment to His covenant.

their meat
The term "meat" here refers to the flesh of animals deemed unclean. The Hebrew word is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which can mean flesh or body. In the ancient Near Eastern context, dietary practices were often linked to religious beliefs and rituals. By prohibiting the consumption of certain meats, God was teaching the Israelites to discern between what is holy and unholy, clean and unclean. This distinction was a constant reminder of God's holiness and the call for His people to reflect that holiness in every aspect of their lives.

or touch their carcasses
The Hebrew word for "touch" is "נָגַע" (naga), which implies contact or reaching out. The prohibition against touching carcasses of unclean animals further emphasizes the concept of ritual purity. In the ancient world, touching a dead body was often associated with impurity and required purification rituals. This command highlights the seriousness of maintaining purity and the need for constant vigilance in avoiding defilement. It serves as a metaphor for avoiding sin and anything that could lead to spiritual contamination.

they are unclean
The word "unclean" is translated from the Hebrew "טָמֵא" (tame), which means impure or defiled. In Levitical law, uncleanness was not just a physical state but a spiritual condition that separated individuals from the community and from God. The concept of uncleanness is central to understanding the holiness code in Leviticus. It illustrates the pervasive nature of sin and the need for atonement and purification. This distinction between clean and unclean is a call to holiness, urging believers to live lives that are pleasing to God.

for you
The phrase "for you" personalizes the command, indicating that these laws were specifically given to the Israelites. It underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people. The dietary laws were a sign of this unique relationship, setting the Israelites apart from other nations. For contemporary believers, this phrase can be a reminder of the personal nature of God's call to holiness and the responsibility to live in a way that honors Him. It speaks to the intimate and personal nature of God's instructions, tailored for His people to reflect His character in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The primary human 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. Clean and Unclean Animals
Categories of animals defined by God, distinguishing what the Israelites could and could not eat.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received these laws during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The dietary laws were a means to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation. As Christians, we are called to live distinct lives that reflect God's holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were required to obey God's laws as an act of faith and trust. Similarly, Christians are called to obey God's Word, trusting in His wisdom and sovereignty.

Symbolism of Purity
The concept of clean and unclean animals symbolizes the importance of spiritual purity. Christians are encouraged to pursue purity in thought, word, and deed.

Cultural and Historical Context
Understanding the historical context of these laws helps us appreciate their significance for the Israelites and their fulfillment in Christ.

Freedom in Christ
While the dietary laws were specific to the Israelites, Christians are reminded of their freedom in Christ, who has fulfilled the law and offers a new covenant of grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11:8 reflect God's desire for His people to be set apart?

2. In what ways can Christians today apply the principle of holiness in their daily lives?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on clean and unclean foods (e.g., Acts 10) impact our understanding of Leviticus 11:8?

4. What are some modern-day "unclean" influences that Christians should avoid to maintain spiritual purity?

5. How can understanding the historical and cultural context of Leviticus enhance our appreciation of God's Word and its application today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 7
The distinction between clean and unclean animals is first mentioned in the context of Noah's Ark, indicating an early understanding of these categories.

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

Mark 7
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.

1 Peter 1:16
The call to holiness, reflecting the underlying principle of the dietary laws to set God's people apart.