Deuteronomy 14:20

But of all clean fowls ye may eat.

Deuteronomy 14:20 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the dietary laws Moses gave to Israel. The surrounding passage (Deuteronomy 14:11-19) lists forbidden birds, so “clean fowls” are those not named among the unclean species. The parallel verse Deuteronomy 14:11 states the same permission for clean birds. Jewish interpreters, including the Targum of Jonathan and Aben Ezra, noted that clean locusts were also included among winged creatures, as Leviticus 11:22 lists them as clean.

Meaning

The word “clean” means acceptable for eating under the law. The text does not name every permitted bird, but it gives a clear principle: any bird not expressly forbidden may be eaten. Examples of clean birds elsewhere include pigeons, doves, turtledoves, and young pigeons, which were also used for sacrifices (Leviticus 1:14). The law did not mention modern birds like chickens, but the principle remains that the list of unclean birds defines the boundary.

Biblical connections

These food laws set Israel apart from other nations and taught holiness in daily life. In the New Testament, Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), and Peter learned that God had cleansed what was once called common (Acts 10:15). Therefore, the ceremonial part of the diet is fulfilled in Christ, and Gentile believers are not bound by these rules.

Application

For Christians, the specific dietary restrictions no longer apply. Yet the deeper lessons remain: obedience to God’s Word, purity in daily habits, and trust in His wisdom. Believers are called to honor their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and to glorify God in all actions, including meals (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Reflection

This verse reminds us that God cares about every part of life, even what we eat. While the old rules have passed, the call to holiness and grateful stewardship continues. Let us receive God’s provision with thankfulness and live in the freedom Christ gives.