Leviticus 11:20 – “All flying insects that walk on all fours are to be regarded as unclean by you.”

Extended Explanation

Leviticus 11:20 introduces a section in the dietary laws that focuses on flying insects. This verse declares that all flying insects that walk on all fours are considered unclean and should not be eaten by the Israelites. Insects such as flies, beetles, and other similar creatures fall into this category. The reasoning behind this prohibition is rooted in the dietary laws that were given to the Israelites to maintain purity and avoid anything considered unclean. The command highlights the importance of distinguishing between what is clean and unclean in every area of life, even down to the smallest creatures.

Historical Context

Leviticus was written at a time when the Israelites were in the wilderness after being freed from slavery in Egypt. During this period, God provided them with specific laws and instructions to help them live as His holy and distinct people. These dietary laws were part of the covenant between God and Israel and served as a way to keep them separate from the surrounding nations and their practices. While some cultures might have eaten various insects without concern, the Israelites were called to follow God’s specific guidelines to remain pure and set apart. This separation was vital for preserving their unique identity and for teaching them to rely on God’s provision and direction in every aspect of life.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Leviticus 11:20 emphasizes the principle of holiness and the need for discernment. God’s command to avoid eating flying insects that walk on all fours goes beyond mere dietary restrictions; it teaches His people to be vigilant about what they consume and engage with. This verse shows that God cares about the details of His people’s lives, including their diets, because these choices reflect their commitment to Him. It also teaches that God’s people are to be discerning in all areas of life, choosing what aligns with His standards and rejecting what does not. Holiness involves making intentional choices to avoid anything that might defile or distract from a relationship with God.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 11:20 is written in a clear and prescriptive style, typical of the legal texts in Leviticus. The verse uses specific language to categorize a group of creatures—flying insects that walk on all fours—and label them as unclean. The repetition of “unclean” throughout this chapter reinforces the seriousness of these dietary laws and their role in maintaining Israel’s purity and identity as God’s chosen people. The concise structure and detailed description ensure that there is no ambiguity about which creatures are forbidden, reflecting the precision and clarity of God’s instructions.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 14:19: Reinforces the command against eating unclean insects, emphasizing the need to avoid them.
• Isaiah 66:17: Describes those who consume unclean things as rebellious, indicating the spiritual consequences of such actions.
• Leviticus 11:23: Continues the discussion on unclean insects, providing more details about which types are specifically forbidden.
• Acts 10:12-15: In Peter’s vision, God declares all foods clean, marking a shift from the Old Testament dietary laws to a new understanding under the New Covenant.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christians, Leviticus 11:20 might seem like an outdated rule that no longer applies. The New Testament teaches that Christians are not bound by these Old Testament dietary laws (Mark 7:19; Acts 10:15). However, the principle behind this verse remains significant. It teaches the importance of discernment in all areas of life, including what we “consume” spiritually. Just as the Israelites were called to avoid unclean insects, Christians are called to be mindful of what they allow into their hearts and minds. The call to avoid “unclean” things challenges believers to make choices that reflect their commitment to God and their desire to live in a way that honors Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Leviticus 11:20 reflects God’s love and care for His people by providing them with guidelines that protect them from spiritual and physical harm. These dietary laws were not meant to be burdensome but to teach the Israelites about purity, obedience, and holiness. Just as a loving parent provides rules for their children’s safety and well-being, God’s commands were designed to keep His people from anything that could defile or separate them from Him. God’s instructions were given out of love, guiding His people to live lives that are healthy, both spiritually and physically, and in a way that reflects His holiness.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The dietary laws, including those about unclean insects in Leviticus 11:20, find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus taught that it is not what goes into a person’s mouth that makes them unclean, but what comes out of their heart (Matthew 15:11). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus established a new covenant that focuses on internal transformation rather than external adherence to rules. In Acts 10, God reveals to Peter in a vision that all foods are clean, symbolizing a shift from the old covenant’s dietary restrictions to a new focus on the condition of the heart and spiritual purity. This change points to the deeper work of cleansing and renewal that Jesus provides to all who believe in Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the principle of avoiding “unclean” things apply to our spiritual lives today?
2. In what ways should Christians practice discernment in what they allow into their hearts and minds?
3. How does understanding the purpose behind the Old Testament laws help us appreciate the grace and freedom we have through Jesus Christ?
4. In what ways does Jesus’ teaching on inner purity challenge our current behaviors, thoughts, and attitudes?
5. How can we live in a way that reflects our identity as God’s people in a world filled with distractions and temptations?

This exploration of Leviticus 11:20 shows that while the Old Testament dietary laws are not directly applicable to Christians today, the principles of holiness, discernment, and living a life that honors God remain central to the Christian walk and our relationship with Jesus Christ.