Topical Bible: The Scorpion: Unfit for Food

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In the biblical context, the scorpion is often associated with danger and discomfort, rather than as a source of sustenance. The scorpion is a small arachnid known for its venomous sting, which can cause significant pain and, in some cases, serious harm to humans. The Bible references scorpions in various passages, often symbolizing peril and divine judgment.

The dietary laws given to the Israelites in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, outline specific guidelines regarding clean and unclean animals. While the scorpion is not explicitly mentioned in these dietary laws, it falls under the category of creatures that are considered unclean and therefore unfit for consumption. Leviticus 11:20-23 provides guidance on winged insects, stating, "All flying insects that walk on all fours are detestable to you." Although scorpions are not insects, the principle of avoiding creatures that are not explicitly deemed clean applies.

In Deuteronomy 8:15, the scorpion is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness: "He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions." Here, the scorpion is depicted as one of the many dangers faced by the Israelites, emphasizing its role as a threat rather than a food source.

The New Testament also references scorpions in a metaphorical sense. In Luke 10:19, Jesus tells His disciples, "See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." This passage highlights the scorpion as a symbol of spiritual adversity and evil, reinforcing its negative connotations.

Furthermore, in Luke 11:12, Jesus uses the scorpion in a rhetorical question to illustrate the nature of God's goodness: "Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion?" This comparison underscores the scorpion's association with harm and danger, contrasting it with the provision of good gifts.

Throughout Scripture, the scorpion is consistently portrayed as a creature to be avoided, both physically and symbolically. Its presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the perils that can befall humanity, and its exclusion from the dietary laws aligns with the broader biblical theme of distinguishing between what is clean and unclean, safe and dangerous.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 11:12
Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Ephesians iv. 31
... they, "is a bitter man, he is a scorpion, a serpent ... How weak they are, and puny,
and unfit for anything ... what Luke saith, "They did take their food with gladness ...
/.../homily xv ephesians iv 31.htm

The Second vision "On Earth"
... believes the water is full of animalculae " the whale food. ... was so extremely bitter
as to be unfit for use. ... the man, the lion, and the scorpion are combined ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the second vision on earth.htm

The Nile and Egypt
... lasso and "bolas""The domestication of animals"Plants used for food"The lotus ... found
except in the desert or in the fields; the scorpion crawls everywhere ...
/.../chapter i the nile and egypt.htm

The Greatness of the Soul,
... and overtaken by it unawares, and because you should know that to draw back from
Me after you have laid your hand to My plough, will make you unfit for the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the greatness of the soul.htm