“Ye shall therefore put difference between clean beasts and unclean, and between unclean fowls and clean: and ye shall not make your souls abominable by beast, or by fowl, or by any manner of living thing that creepeth on the ground, which I have separated from you as unclean.”
Context: Leviticus is a book in the Old Testament that contains various laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Leviticus 20 deals with a range of laws, including prohibitions against various forms of sexual immorality, idolatry, and other sins. In this particular verse, God instructs the Israelites to distinguish between clean and unclean animals and birds, emphasizing that they are not to defile themselves with anything that He has declared unclean.
Clean and Unclean Animals: In Leviticus 11, God provides a detailed list of clean and unclean animals that the Israelites were to abide by. The clean animals were permissible for consumption, while the unclean animals were considered unfit for consumption or sacrifice. The purpose of this distinction was to set the Israelites apart as a holy people and to teach them about purity and obedience to God’s commandments.
Symbolic and Practical Significance: The distinction between clean and unclean animals served both symbolic and practical purposes. Symbolically, it represented the separation between what is pure and impure, holy and unholy. It was a visible reminder of the Israelites’ calling to be a distinct and holy nation in their worship and lifestyle.
Practically, the dietary laws had health and hygienic implications. Many unclean animals were more likely to carry diseases or parasites, and by avoiding them, the Israelites would be protected from potential health risks. Furthermore, these laws also promoted self-discipline, obedience, and trust in God’s wisdom and guidance.
Spiritual Application: While the dietary laws of the Old Testament have been fulfilled and are no longer binding on Christians (Mark 7:19, Acts 10:9-16), there are some spiritual principles that can be gleaned from this verse:
- Holiness and Separation: The call to distinguish between clean and unclean animals reminds us of the need to live lives that are set apart for God. As believers, we are called to be separate from the sinful practices and values of the world (2 Corinthians 6:17).
- Discernment: Just as the Israelites were required to discern between clean and unclean, we are called to exercise discernment in our daily choices. We should seek to differentiate between what is godly and what is ungodly, making choices that honor and please God.
- Purity: The concept of purity is emphasized in this verse. In the New Testament, we are encouraged to pursue moral and spiritual purity, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us and make us more like Christ (1 Peter 1:15-16).
- Obedience: The Israelites were expected to obey God’s commandments regarding clean and unclean animals. Likewise, as followers of Christ, we are called to obey His teachings and commandments (John 14:15). Our obedience is an expression of our love for Him.
In summary, Leviticus 20:25 highlights the importance of distinguishing between what is clean and unclean according to God’s instructions. While the specific dietary laws no longer apply to Christians, the underlying principles of holiness, discernment, purity, and obedience remain relevant for our spiritual growth and walk with God.
