Acts 10:14
But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Πέτρος
Peter
G4074
Πέτρος
Peter
Strong's:
G4074
Word #:
3 of 13
a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle
κύριε
Lord
G2962
κύριε
Lord
Strong's:
G2962
Word #:
6 of 13
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 13
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
Cross References
Leviticus 20:25Ye 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.Ezekiel 4:14Then said I, Ah Lord GOD! behold, my soul hath not been polluted: for from my youth up even till now have I not eaten of that which dieth of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither came there abominable flesh into my mouth.Daniel 1:8But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
Historical Context
Peter's resistance demonstrated genuine piety, not mere prejudice. His lifelong Torah-observance made the command genuinely shocking.
Questions for Reflection
- When have your previous understandings needed correction by further revelation?
- How does Peter's honest resistance model engaging with difficult divine commands?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Peter's protest - 'Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean' - showed sincere resistance based on lifelong obedience. The terms 'common' (koinon) and 'unclean' (akatharton) were distinct ceremonial categories.