Read Leviticus 11 at Bible Gateway.
Most of the lexicons define ‘clean’ and ‘unclean’ in a purely ceremonial sense; as an arbitrary designation God assigned to Temple rituals now passed away. But digging deeper into Scripture shows these terms were in use long before the tabernacle, Temple, or Levitical priesthood even existed (Gen 7:2-3).
‘Clean’ (טָהוֹר, tahor) means, not filthy, as a garment. Fresh from the wash, it’s clean; wear it a while , and sweat, food, or dirt is mixed in When an article of clothing comes out of the wash, it is clean. After it is worn for a while, sweat, or food, or dirt gets mixed in, and the fibers are no longer clean, but unclean.
‘Clean’ means, pure, as refined gold or silver. Ore pulled from the earth is mixed with rock and other minerals. Fire separates whatever is other (‘dross’) until only the pure gold remains.
Something clean can become unclean by pollution; as Shechem polluted Dinah (Gen 34:5—the same Hebrew root as “Levitical” uncleanness); as wickedness pollutes the land (Lev 18:28); as an adulteress pollutes herself (Num 5:13); or as God’s people pollute themselves with idolatry (Hos 5:3).
Why This Matters: Applying its Common Theme Scriptural usage Leviticus 11, the distinction between clean and unclean animals isn’t merely ceremonial. Unclean animals pollute the body when eaten. My first experience avoiding pork was during a detox diet, as it was forbidden. Pigs retain more toxins than other livestock, not to mention the parasites and diseases they host more readily. Aquatic life without fins and scales (catfish, shellfish) are the garbage scows of the rivers and oceans. Unclean birds are mostly scavengers or predators.
God, being smarter than we are, gave instructions that protect from pollution, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
11:1-47 {s+s+p} Strong Theme: The law of clean and unclean animals
The Hebrew paragraphs for this chapter
11:1-28 {s} Unclean animals, sea life, birds, creeping things which may not be eaten
11:29-38 {s} Transferring uncleanness
11:39-47 {p} Uncleanness of creeping things, and conclusion
If there are questions, these are good resources:
Leviticus 10 and 11, Hebrew root word parables (clean and unclean)
Leviticus 11, The health benefits of eating clean
Clean and Unclean Food Index of Studies
The Dietary Laws – Wildbranch Ministry (Brad Scott)
Continued in part two, part three, part four, part five
Clean and Unclean Foods Product List
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