How does Leviticus 11:26 guide us in discerning clean and unclean animals? Opening the Passage “Every animal that has hooves but whose hoof is not completely divided, or does not chew the cud, is unclean for you; whoever touches any part of its carcass will be unclean.” (Leviticus 11:26) Immediate Guidelines for Discernment • Two tests must be met together: – Split (fully divided) hoof – Chews the cud • Failure in either test renders the animal unclean. • Touching the carcass of such an animal also transmits uncleanness. Why Two Tests? • God gives a clear, objective way to identify what may be eaten. • The dual standard prevents compromise—both outer form (hoof) and inner process (cud-chewing) matter. • It trains Israel to recognize and obey specific boundaries (cf. Deuteronomy 14:6). Broader Purposes Behind the Distinction • Holiness: “You are to be holy, because I am holy.” (Leviticus 11:44–45; 1 Peter 1:15-16) • Separation from surrounding nations’ practices (Exodus 19:5-6). • Daily reminder that fellowship with God touches even ordinary acts like eating. Continuity and Fulfillment in the New Testament • Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:18-19) and Peter’s vision affirmed it (Acts 10:12-15). • The ceremonial shadow gives way to the substance—Christ’s cleansing work (Colossians 2:16-17). • Yet the principle of careful discernment remains: – Test what we “take in,” whether food or teaching (1 John 4:1). – Pursue external and internal purity (2 Corinthians 7:1). Practical Takeaways Today • God cares about both visible conduct (the “hoof”) and inward meditation (the “cud”). • Let choices—even mundane ones—reflect a heart set apart for Him. • Use the principle of double confirmation when evaluating influences: – Does it align outwardly with God’s standards? – Does it promote inward, ongoing reflection on His truth? |
    |