Topical Bible: Insects: Clean and Unclean (Ceremonially Speaking)

◄ Insects: Clean and Unclean (Ceremonially Speaking) ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the classification of insects as clean or unclean is primarily derived from the dietary laws given to the Israelites in the Old Testament. These laws are detailed in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, which outline the distinctions between animals that could be consumed and those that were forbidden.

Biblical References and Classification

The primary passage concerning the ceremonial cleanliness of insects is found in Leviticus 11. Here, God provides Moses and Aaron with specific instructions regarding which creatures are permissible for consumption. Leviticus 11:20-23 states:

"All flying insects that walk on all fours are detestable to you. However, you may eat the following kinds of winged creatures that walk on all fours: those having jointed legs above their feet for hopping on the ground. Of these you may eat any kind of locust, katydid, cricket, or grasshopper. But all other winged creatures that have four legs are detestable to you."

This passage clearly delineates between clean and unclean insects. The clean insects, which are permissible to eat, include locusts, katydids, crickets, and grasshoppers. These insects are characterized by having jointed legs that allow them to hop on the ground. In contrast, all other flying insects that walk on all fours are considered unclean and are not to be consumed.

Ceremonial Implications

The distinction between clean and unclean insects is part of a broader system of ceremonial laws that governed the daily lives of the Israelites. These laws were intended to set the Israelites apart as a holy people, dedicated to God. The consumption of clean animals was a way to maintain ritual purity, while the avoidance of unclean animals was a means of preventing defilement.

The ceremonial laws, including those concerning clean and unclean animals, served as a constant reminder of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. They were a call to holiness and obedience, reflecting the character of God and His desire for His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the ceremonial laws, including dietary restrictions, are re-evaluated in light of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In Acts 10, Peter receives a vision in which he is told, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean" (Acts 10:15). This vision signifies the abolition of the ceremonial distinctions between clean and unclean foods, symbolizing the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community.

The Apostle Paul further emphasizes this point in his letters, stating that dietary laws are no longer binding on Christians. In Colossians 2:16-17 , Paul writes, "Therefore let no one judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a feast, a New Moon, or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the body that casts it belongs to Christ."

Conclusion

The classification of insects as clean or unclean in the Old Testament reflects the broader system of ceremonial laws given to the Israelites. These laws were intended to maintain ritual purity and set God's people apart. However, with the advent of the New Testament and the work of Christ, these ceremonial distinctions have been fulfilled and are no longer applicable to Christians. The focus has shifted from external observance to the internal transformation brought about by faith in Jesus Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 11:21-25
Yet these may you eat of every flying creeping thing that goes on all four, which have legs above their feet, to leap with on the earth;
Nave's Topical Index