Makewetalknow

According to Genesis 1:29-30, animals were not created to be consumed by humans. Instead, humans were designed to consume plant-based foods. God only allowed humanity to consume certain types of meat after the Great Flood, but warned against eating animals with fresh blood (Genesis 9:3-4).

Among these animals were also the biblical food laws of Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, which classified animals into four categories: land animals, sea creatures, birds, and creeping things. Some of these animals are clean enough to be eaten, while others are not.

Clean and Unclean Land Animals

According to Leviticus 11:2-8 and Deuteronomy 14, some land animals are considered clean and fit for human consumption, while others are unclean. To be considered clean, an animal must chew its cud and have hooves that are completely split in two.

Clean animals include cattle, sheep, and goats, all of which meet these criteria. While camels, rock badgers, rabbits, and pigs are examples of unclean animals. The prophet Isaiah also condemned swine consumption, calling it an abomination.

Clean and Unclean Sea Creatures

Leviticus 11:9-12 and Deuteronomy 14:9-10 provide guidelines for both clean and unclean sea creatures. Clean sea creatures must have fins and scales, which means salmon and tilapia are acceptable. In contrast, shellfish and other sea creatures such as crabs, lobsters, squid, shrimp, and catfish are considered unclean and not suitable for human consumption.

Clean and Unclean Birds

The book of Leviticus identifies certain birds as unclean, prohibiting their consumption (Leviticus 11:13-19, Deuteronomy 14:11-18). Unclean birds include ostriches, storks, herons, bats, eagles, hawks, kites, falcons, and owls, as well as vultures, which are scavengers. Clean birds, such as chickens, ducks, and doves, are acceptable for consumption, showing the importance of staying true to biblical guidelines.

Clean and Unclean Animals that Creep and Crawl the Earth

Leviticus 11:20–47 and Deuteronomy 14:19–22 provide guidelines for identifying unclean creeping things and insects. Weasels, rats, and lizards such as geckos, monitor lizards, wall lizards, skinks, and chameleons are all unclean animals (Leviticus 11:29-30). Certain flying insects, such as locusts, katydids, crickets, and grasshoppers, are, however, permitted to be eaten (Leviticus 11:20-23).

Are the laws of the Old Testament Still Relevant Today?

Some Christians argue that the Old Testament laws, including dietary restrictions, were abolished through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. They frequently cite passages like Romans 7:6, 2 Corinthians 3:6, and Galatians 3:24-25 to argue that believers are no longer under the law but under grace. However, this selective reading of scripture may be considered hypocritical.

If the Bible clearly states that certain actions or behaviours are wrong, shouldn’t we be consistent in following those teachings? Nowhere in the Bible does Yahusha claim to have abolished or done away with God’s laws. Instead, He emphasized the importance of preserving them (Matthew 19:17, John 14:15).

Bible Verses Most Christians use to Justify Eating Unclean Animals

1. Mark 7:18-19

Many Christians use Mark 7:18-19 to justify eating unclean animals, but a closer look reveals Yahusha was arguing for inner purity over outward rituals, rather than abolishing dietary laws. His statement was in response to the Pharisees’ tradition of handwashing before eating, and it redefined what constitutes clean food.

Yahusha was not making a broad statement about all foods being safe, but rather addressing the source of the problem. Therefore, the phrase “(Thus He declared all foods clean)” is a translator’s addition that is not present in all the bible versions. This is why understanding Yahusha’s words in their original context is so important.

2. Acts 10:9-16

Acts 10:9-16 is often cited to justify eating unclean animals, but the context suggests otherwise. Peter’s vision was about associating with Gentiles, not food. When instructed to eat unclean animals, Peter objected, indicating that his understanding of dietary laws had not changed.

The vision conveyed the message that the gospel is for all nations, and Peter later clarified that Gentiles are not “unclean” (Acts 11:1-3). The early church understood that it was more important to spread the gospel than to change dietary rules.

3. Romans 14:14

Romans 14:14 is regularly cited to justify eating unclean animals. However, Paul was only concerned with one aspect of the early church: relationships between believers of various convictions.

Paul expressed his personal conviction and respect for other people’s beliefs without making a blanket statement about dietary restrictions. This particular verse highlights the importance of individual conviction and respect in food choices, rather than providing a licence to disregard biblical law.

4. Corinthians 8:1-13

1 Corinthians 8:1-13 is widely used to justify eating unclean animals, but the context is actually about eating meat sacrificed to idols. Paul focuses on avoiding idolatry and prioritizing love for others, particularly those who may be led astray.

He is encouraging believers to balance personal freedom with concern for others, not making a statement about biblical dietary laws. The passage promotes selflessness and sensitivity toward others, while not condoning the consumption of unclean animals.

5. Timothy 4:3-4

1 Timothy 4:3-4 is often cited to justify eating unclean animals, but the context is actually about false teachings promoting asceticism. Paul is responding to spiritual elitism by emphasizing that God’s provision is good and should be accepted with gratitude.

He is not promoting unclean animals or abolishing dietary laws, but rather encouraging thankfulness and acknowledging God’s goodness. The passage encourages gratitude, not disregarding biblical dietary guidelines.

6. Colossians 2:16-17

Colossians 2:16-17 is often cited to disregard dietary laws, but Paul’s focus is on the distinction between shadows (Old Testament rituals) and reality (Christ). He is emphasizing that believers should focus on their relationship with Christ rather than external regulations. The passage teaches that our identity is derived from Christ, not from laws or rituals. It is about prioritizing Christ rather than allowing people to eat unclean animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, God’s kindness and generosity towards us are immeasurable, and we should respond with gratitude and obedience to His laws. Following God’s dietary guidelines allows us to reap the benefits of eating nutritious foods that are good for our bodies.

As I always say, ignorance will not be an excuse on Judgment Day. The good news is that you still have the opportunity to change your life and live in accordance with God’s standards because you are still alive today.

Image Credit from The Bible Diet