“These also shall be unclean unto you among the creeping things that creep upon the earth; the weasel, and the mouse, and the tortoise after his kind.”
Leviticus 11:28 is part of the larger context of Leviticus 11, which details the dietary laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God. These laws were intended to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation and to teach them about purity and holiness.
In this particular verse, God identifies certain creeping creatures that are considered unclean. These creatures include the weasel, the mouse, and the tortoise (or the land crocodile, as some translations interpret it). It is important to note that these regulations were specific to the Israelites and were not intended as universal dietary laws for all people throughout history.
The concept of clean and unclean animals is a recurring theme in Leviticus 11. The distinction between clean and unclean animals had both practical and symbolic significance. Clean animals were suitable for consumption, while unclean animals were considered impure and were forbidden to be eaten.
Beyond the practical reasons, the dietary laws in Leviticus served as a reminder of the Israelites’ covenant relationship with God. By adhering to these laws, the Israelites demonstrated their obedience to God’s commands and their commitment to holiness. It reinforced the idea of being set apart as God’s chosen people.
It is important to understand that the dietary laws outlined in Leviticus 11 were part of the Old Covenant given to the Israelites under the Mosaic Law. These laws were fulfilled and superseded by the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), indicating that dietary regulations were no longer binding for Christians.
However, while the dietary laws of Leviticus may not be directly applicable to Christians today, they still hold value in terms of principles and symbolism. They remind us of the importance of holiness, obedience, and setting ourselves apart for God’s purposes.
In summary, Leviticus 11:28 is a verse that highlights certain creeping creatures as unclean according to the dietary laws given to the Israelites. These laws were specific to the Israelites and served as a reminder of their commitment to holiness. As Christians, while not bound by these specific dietary regulations, we can still appreciate the underlying principles of obedience and consecration to God.
