“Nevertheless these ye shall not eat of them that chew the cud, or of them that divide the cloven hoof; as the camel, and the hare, and the coney: for they chew the cud, but divide not the hoof; therefore they are unclean unto you.”
This verse is part of the dietary laws given to the Israelites in the book of Deuteronomy. In this passage, Moses is instructing the Israelites on the animals they should and should not eat.
Understanding the terms:
- Chewing the cud: This refers to the process of rumination, where certain animals regurgitate and rechew their food in a specialized digestive system to extract maximum nutrients.
- Dividing the cloven hoof: This means having a hoof that is split into two distinct parts.
Classification of clean and unclean animals:
- Clean animals: The passage states that clean animals are those that both chew the cud and have a divided hoof. These animals are considered suitable for consumption.
- Unclean animals: The verse specifically mentions three examples of unclean animals-the camel, the hare, and the coney (or rock badger). These animals may chew the cud, but they do not have divided hooves. Therefore, they are considered unclean and are not to be eaten.
Symbolic significance:
- The dietary laws given to the Israelites had both practical and symbolic purposes. They served as a way to differentiate the Israelites from other nations and to teach them principles of holiness, obedience, and separation.
- The distinction between clean and unclean animals symbolized the importance of spiritual purity and discernment. Just as certain animals were set apart as unclean, the Israelites were called to be set apart from the practices and influences of the surrounding pagan cultures.
- The dietary laws also reinforced the Israelites’ dependence on God and their obedience to His instructions. By following these laws, they demonstrated their trust and obedience to God’s authority.
Application for Christians today:
- While the dietary laws in the Old Testament were specific to the Israelites, the New Testament provides a different perspective for Christians. In Mark 7:14-23, Jesus declared that it is not what goes into a person’s mouth that defiles them but what comes out of their heart.
- Christians are not bound by the dietary laws of the Old Testament, as emphasized in Acts 10:9-16 and Romans 14:14-23. However, it is important to exercise discernment, self-control, and wisdom in all areas of life, including what we eat, to honor God and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 14:7 outlines the distinction between clean and unclean animals for the Israelites’ dietary practices. While these laws were significant for the Israelites in terms of obedience, holiness, and separation, Christians today are not obligated to follow these specific dietary restrictions. However, we are encouraged to honor God and make wise choices in all aspects of our lives, including our diet.
