Definition and Classification:
Seafood, in the context of the Bible, refers to aquatic creatures that are considered for consumption. The classification of seafood into clean and unclean is primarily derived from the dietary laws given to the Israelites in the Old Testament. These laws are found in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, which provide guidelines on which sea creatures are permissible to eat.

Biblical Dietary Laws:
The primary biblical reference regarding seafood is found in Leviticus 11:9-12 and Deuteronomy 14:9-10. According to these passages, the criteria for clean seafood are that the creatures must have fins and scales. Leviticus 11:9-10 states: "Of all the creatures that live in the water, whether in the seas or the streams, you may eat any that have fins and scales. But anything in the seas or streams that does not have fins and scales, among all the swarming things and other living creatures in the water, is detestable to you."

Clean Seafood:
Based on the biblical criteria, fish such as salmon, trout, and cod, which possess both fins and scales, are considered clean and permissible for consumption. These fish were likely part of the diet of the Israelites and are still consumed by those who adhere to biblical dietary laws.

Unclean Seafood:
Sea creatures that do not have both fins and scales are deemed unclean. This includes shellfish such as shrimp, crabs, and lobsters, as well as other aquatic animals like catfish and eels. Deuteronomy 14:10 reiterates this prohibition: "But anything that does not have fins and scales you may not eat; it is unclean for you."

Symbolism and Significance:
The distinction between clean and unclean seafood is part of the broader Levitical laws that set the Israelites apart as a holy people. These dietary laws served as a constant reminder of their covenant relationship with God and their call to be distinct from surrounding nations. The consumption of clean seafood was a symbol of obedience and purity.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, the dietary laws, including those concerning seafood, are revisited. In Acts 10, Peter receives a vision that challenges the traditional Jewish dietary restrictions. Acts 10:15 records the voice saying to Peter, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This vision is interpreted as a revelation that the Gospel is for all people, Jew and Gentile alike, and that the ceremonial laws, including dietary restrictions, are fulfilled in Christ.

Cultural and Historical Context:
Seafood was a staple in the diet of many ancient Near Eastern cultures, including the Israelites. The Sea of Galilee, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Jordan River provided abundant sources of fish. Fishing was a common occupation, as evidenced by several of Jesus' disciples being fishermen. The consumption of fish is also highlighted in the New Testament, where Jesus performs miracles involving fish, such as the feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:17-21) and the miraculous catch of fish (John 21:6).

Conclusion:
The biblical perspective on seafood is deeply rooted in the dietary laws given to the Israelites, which distinguished between clean and unclean creatures. While these laws were significant in the Old Testament, the New Testament presents a shift in understanding, emphasizing the spiritual rather than ceremonial purity.Psalm 104:25
So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.
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Leviticus 11:10
And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination to you:
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