Leviticus 11:6

The rabbit, though it chews the cud, does not have a divided hoof; it is unclean for you.

Study Bible

The rabbit
The Hebrew word used here is "אַרְנֶבֶת" (arnevet), which is traditionally understood to refer to a rabbit or hare. In ancient Israel, the rabbit was a common animal, and its mention here reflects the everyday life and environment of the Israelites. Rabbits were known for their prolific breeding and were often seen as symbols of fertility. However, in the context of Leviticus, the focus is on dietary laws and ritual purity, not symbolism.

though it chews the cud
The phrase "chews the cud" is translated from the Hebrew "מַעֲלֵה גֵּרָה" (ma'aleh gerah). This refers to the process of regurgitating food and re-chewing it, a characteristic of ruminant animals. Rabbits do not technically chew the cud in the same way as ruminants like cows or sheep. However, they do engage in a process called refection, where they re-ingest partially digested food. This distinction highlights the ancient understanding of animal behavior and the importance of observable characteristics in determining dietary laws.

does not have a split hoof
The Hebrew phrase "וּפַרְסָה לֹא יַפְרִיס" (u'parsa lo yafris) refers to the lack of a divided hoof. In Levitical law, animals that are considered clean must both chew the cud and have split hooves. The split hoof is a physical characteristic that is easily observable, making it a practical criterion for distinguishing clean from unclean animals. This requirement underscores the importance of external, visible signs in the ritual purity laws of ancient Israel.

it is unclean for you
The term "unclean" is translated from the Hebrew "טָמֵא" (tamei), which denotes ritual impurity. In the context of Leviticus, being unclean is not necessarily a moral judgment but a state that affects one's ability to participate in religious activities. The dietary laws served to set the Israelites apart from other nations, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people. The distinction between clean and unclean animals is a reminder of the call to holiness and the need for discernment in daily life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws of clean and unclean animals were given.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where God delivered the laws to Moses, including dietary laws.

4. The Rabbit
An example of an animal considered unclean under Mosaic Law due to its lack of a split hoof.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received and practiced these laws during their journey to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The dietary laws were a means for the Israelites to live distinctively as God's holy people. Today, believers are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness in all areas, not just dietary practices.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were required to obey God's laws as an act of faith and trust. Similarly, Christians are called to obey God's Word, trusting in His wisdom and sovereignty.

Understanding Context
While the specific dietary laws are not binding on Christians today, understanding their purpose helps us appreciate the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan through Christ.

Spiritual Discernment
Just as the Israelites discerned between clean and unclean, Christians are called to discern between what is spiritually beneficial and what is not, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Unity in Diversity
The New Testament teaches that dietary practices should not divide believers. Unity in Christ transcends cultural and traditional differences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 11, including the prohibition of eating rabbits, reflect God's call for His people to be holy and separate?

2. In what ways can the principle of holiness, as seen in Leviticus 11:6, be applied to modern Christian living?

3. How does Peter's vision in Acts 10 challenge or change the understanding of clean and unclean animals from Leviticus 11?

4. What are some practical ways Christians today can practice discernment in their daily lives, similar to the discernment required by the dietary laws?

5. How can Romans 14 guide us in maintaining unity within the church when there are differing opinions on non-essential practices, such as dietary choices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 7
Discusses clean and unclean animals in the context of Noah's Ark, showing the concept predates the Mosaic Law.

Deuteronomy 14
Reiterates the dietary laws, emphasizing the importance of holiness and separation.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, illustrating the shift in understanding of dietary laws in the New Testament.

Romans 14
Discusses the freedom in Christ regarding dietary practices, emphasizing faith and conscience.

1 Peter 1:16
Calls believers to be holy, as God is holy, reflecting the underlying principle of the dietary laws.