Leviticus 11:21 – “There are, however, some flying insects that walk on all fours that you may eat: those that have jointed legs for hopping on the ground.”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 11:21 provides an exception to the general rule about flying insects being unclean. In this verse, God makes a distinction for certain flying insects that have jointed legs for hopping on the ground. Unlike the other flying insects that walk on all fours and are considered unclean, these specific types of insects are allowed to be eaten. Examples would include locusts, grasshoppers, and crickets, which are known for their ability to hop. This distinction highlights the detail and specificity of God’s dietary laws for the Israelites, teaching them the importance of making careful distinctions between what is clean and unclean.
Historical Context
The book of Leviticus was written during the time when the Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. During this period, God provided them with laws and instructions to guide them as they became His chosen people, distinct from the surrounding nations. The dietary laws were an essential part of this guidance, helping the Israelites understand how to live in a way that honored God. While some cultures around them might have eaten various insects without any consideration, the Israelites were called to follow specific rules. This verse, in particular, demonstrates that God provided for His people, even allowing certain insects to be eaten when food sources were scarce, which was a practical consideration in their wilderness journey.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 11:21 shows that God is concerned with teaching His people about discernment, holiness, and obedience. The allowance for certain insects to be eaten, while others are forbidden, emphasizes that not all things that appear similar are acceptable. This distinction calls for careful examination and consideration, showing that God’s people must not only follow His commands but also understand the reasons behind them. The verse reflects a broader principle that holiness involves more than just avoiding certain behaviors; it requires actively choosing what is permitted and good, according to God’s standards.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 11:21 is written in a clear and direct style, characteristic of the legal texts in Leviticus. The verse provides a specific exception to the general rule about unclean insects, indicating that there is more nuance in God’s commands than simple black-and-white rules. By specifying “those that have jointed legs for hopping,” the verse narrows down the permissible options and ensures there is no ambiguity about which insects are considered clean. This detailed and structured approach reflects the care with which God provided His laws, ensuring His people understood how to live in a way that was pleasing to Him.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 14:19-20: Also lists the types of flying insects that are permissible to eat, reinforcing the dietary laws given to Israel.
- Matthew 3:4: John the Baptist is described as eating locusts and wild honey, showing that the consumption of certain insects was still practiced by devout Jews.
- Mark 7:18-19: Jesus declares all foods clean, signaling a shift from the dietary restrictions of the Old Covenant to a focus on inward purity under the New Covenant.
- Acts 10:12-15: In Peter’s vision, God declares all foods clean, symbolizing the end of the Old Testament dietary restrictions and the inclusion of all people in God’s family.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Leviticus 11:21 might seem like a rule that no longer applies since the New Testament teaches that all foods are clean (Mark 7:19; Acts 10:15). However, the principle behind this verse remains important. It teaches Christians the importance of discernment and being aware of what is beneficial and acceptable. Just as the Israelites were given specific guidelines on which insects were permissible to eat, Christians are called to be mindful of what they allow into their lives. The principle of choosing what aligns with God’s will and avoiding what does not is still relevant in making daily decisions about our spiritual health.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 11:21 reflects God’s loving care for His people by providing them with clear guidelines that both protect and provide for them. These dietary laws were not designed to burden the Israelites but to guide them toward a life that honors God and reflects His holiness. By allowing certain insects to be eaten, God demonstrated His understanding of their needs, especially during their time in the wilderness. Like a loving parent who sets rules to keep their children safe and healthy, God’s commands were meant to lead His people into a closer relationship with Him while ensuring their well-being.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The dietary laws, including the allowances made in Leviticus 11:21, find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus taught that what makes a person unclean is not what they eat but what comes from their heart (Matthew 15:11). With His death and resurrection, Jesus established a new covenant that focuses on internal transformation rather than external adherence to rules. In Acts 10, Peter receives a vision in which God declares all foods clean, marking a significant shift from the old dietary laws to a focus on the spiritual condition of the heart. This shift points to the deeper spiritual cleansing that Jesus offers to all who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the principle of choosing what is acceptable to God apply to our spiritual lives today?
- In what ways should Christians practice discernment in what they allow into their hearts and minds?
- How does understanding the purpose behind the Old Testament laws help us appreciate the grace and freedom we have in Jesus Christ?
- How can we apply the principle of choosing what is beneficial and avoiding what is harmful in our daily lives?
- 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 11:21 shows that while the Old Testament dietary laws are no longer directly applicable to Christians, the principles of discernment, holiness, and living a life that honors God remain central to our walk with Jesus.