“And every thing whereupon any part of their carcase falleth shall be unclean; whether it be oven, or ranges for pots, they shall be broken down: for they are unclean and shall be unclean unto you.”
Context: Leviticus 11 provides instructions regarding clean and unclean animals for the Israelites. God gave these dietary laws to set apart His chosen people and to teach them about holiness and obedience. The passage specifically focuses on the contamination caused by the carcasses of unclean animals.
Uncleanness and Holiness: The concept of uncleanness in the Old Testament pertains to a ceremonial state of impurity. Certain objects or individuals were considered unclean and required specific purification rituals to restore their cleanliness. God commanded the Israelites to distinguish between clean and unclean things, as a reflection of their call to holiness and separation from the practices of the surrounding nations.
The Carcass Principle: Leviticus 11:35 deals with the contamination that occurs when any part of an unclean animal’s carcass falls on various objects, such as an oven or a range used for pots. The objects that come into contact with the carcass become unclean themselves. The solution given is to break down the contaminated objects, rendering them unusable. This emphasizes the seriousness of avoiding contamination and the necessity of removing anything that could defile.
Symbolism and Spiritual Application: The laws regarding clean and unclean animals served several purposes, including health considerations, obedience to God’s commands, and symbolizing spiritual truths. From a spiritual standpoint, these laws can teach us about the importance of discernment in our daily lives. As Christians, we are called to be discerning in our choices, separating ourselves from practices and influences that can defile us spiritually.
- Christ’s Fulfillment: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), signifying a shift from the ceremonial laws of the Old Covenant to the new freedom found in Him. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the law and provided a way for all people to be cleansed from sin and made holy through faith in Him.
- Application Today: While the specific dietary laws of Leviticus 11 no longer apply to Christians, the principles behind them still hold relevance. We are called to live holy and separated lives, making choices that honor God and reflect His character. We should be discerning about the influences and activities we allow into our lives, avoiding anything that could lead us away from God or compromise our faith.
In summary, Leviticus 11:35 highlights the importance of avoiding contamination and defilement. Though we are no longer bound by the dietary laws of the Old Testament, the principles of holiness and discernment remain relevant to our lives as Christians. By seeking to live in obedience to God and by making choices that honor Him, we can grow in our relationship with Him and reflect His holiness to the world around us.
