Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the term "hoofed" refers to animals that possess hooves, which are the hard coverings on the feet of certain mammals. These animals are often mentioned in the context of dietary laws and sacrificial practices. The distinction between clean and unclean animals is a significant aspect of the Mosaic Law, and the presence of hooves plays a crucial role in these classifications.Clean and Unclean Animals The primary biblical reference to hoofed animals is found in the dietary laws given to the Israelites. In Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, God provides specific instructions on which animals are considered clean and permissible to eat. According to Leviticus 11:3 , "You may eat any animal that has a split hoof completely divided and that chews the cud." This verse establishes two criteria for clean land animals: they must have a split hoof and chew the cud. Animals that meet both criteria, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, are deemed clean and suitable for consumption. Conversely, animals that do not meet these criteria are considered unclean. For example, the camel, though it chews the cud, does not have a split hoof and is therefore unclean (Leviticus 11:4). Similarly, the pig, which has a split hoof but does not chew the cud, is also unclean (Leviticus 11:7). Symbolism and Sacrificial Use Hoofed animals also hold symbolic significance in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. Clean animals, particularly those with split hooves, were often used in sacrifices to God. The sacrificial system was a means of atonement and worship, and the use of clean animals underscored the importance of purity and obedience to God's commands. For instance, in the covenant ceremony described in Genesis 15, Abram is instructed to bring a heifer, a goat, and a ram, all of which are clean, hoofed animals, as part of the sacrificial offering to God (Genesis 15:9). These sacrifices were a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and provided a means of reconciliation between God and humanity. Practical and Spiritual Lessons The distinction between clean and unclean animals, including those that are hoofed, serves as a practical guide for the Israelites in maintaining dietary purity. It also carries a deeper spiritual lesson about holiness and separation from sin. The physical characteristics of these animals are used to teach the Israelites about discernment and the importance of adhering to God's standards. In the New Testament, the dietary laws are fulfilled in Christ, and the focus shifts from external observance to internal purity. However, the principles of discernment and holiness remain relevant for believers. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, marked by spiritual discernment and moral integrity. In summary, hoofed animals in the Bible are significant in the context of dietary laws, sacrificial practices, and spiritual symbolism. They illustrate the importance of obedience to God's commands and the pursuit of holiness in the life of a believer. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Furnished with hoofs.Library Argument: Octavius Attests the Fact that Men were Adopted as Gods ... For, Like Some Others, You are under the Delusion that Our God is ... Manasseh Thesaurus Hoofed (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Hoofed (1 Occurrence). Psalms 69:31 And it is better to Jehovah than an ox, A bullock -- horned -- hoofed. (YLT). ... /h/hoofed.htm - 6k Hoofs (18 Occurrences) Badger (9 Occurrences) Horned (5 Occurrences) Horse (62 Occurrences) Hoof (11 Occurrences) Hoofbeats (1 Occurrence) Cloven-footed (3 Occurrences) Resources How does the geologic timescale fit with the view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.orgHoofed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hoofed (1 Occurrence)Psalms 69:31 Subtopics Related Terms |
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