Leviticus 11:10 - All that don’t have fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of all the living creatures that are in the waters, they are an abomination to you,

Generated Verse: Leviticus 11:10

What does "Leviticus 11:10" mean?


Leviticus 11:10 is part of a list of dietary laws given to the Israelites. This specific verse prohibits the consumption of aquatic creatures that lack both fins and scales.

Here's a breakdown of what it means:

"All that don’t have fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of all the living creatures that are in the waters": This is a broad category encompassing any animal living in water, be it the sea or rivers.
"they are an abomination to you": This means that these animals are considered ritually impure or unclean. Israelites were not permitted to eat them. The term "abomination" carries a strong sense of being disgusting or offensive to God.

In essence, the verse states that any sea or river creature that does NOT possess both fins and scales is forbidden as food for the Israelites.

Examples:

Permitted (have both fins and scales): Fish like salmon, trout, cod, tuna, etc.
Forbidden (lack both fins and scales): Shellfish like shrimp, lobster, crabs, oysters, clams, as well as squid, octopus, eels, catfish, and sharks.

Significance and Interpretation:

The reasons behind these dietary laws are complex and have been debated for centuries. Some common interpretations include:

Hygiene and Health: Some believe the laws were based on practical health concerns. Creatures without fins and scales are more likely to scavenge and may be more susceptible to disease.
Symbolic Purity: Others see the laws as symbolic, representing a separation between the Israelites and other nations, or a way to cultivate holiness and discipline.
Divine Authority: Ultimately, the laws are presented as commands from God, intended to be obeyed simply because God commanded them.

It's important to note that these dietary laws are specific to the Old Testament and the Jewish faith. Christians have varying views on their applicability today, as the New Testament contains passages that suggest some or all of these restrictions are no longer in effect for believers in Jesus Christ (e.g., Mark 7:19; Acts 10:9-16).

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