Leviticus 11:41
And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth shall be an abomination; it shall not be eaten.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Dietary laws distinguishing clean from unclean animals, teaching Israel holiness and separation from pagan practices. Chapters 11-15 address ritual purity, teaching Israel to distinguish clean from unclean. These laws served multiple purposes: promoting health, teaching spiritual lessons about sin's defilement, and separating Israel from pagan practices. Archaeological evidence shows Canaanite worship involved practices Israel's laws explicitly prohibited. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
- In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
- How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth shall be an abomination; it shall not be eaten.
This verse falls within the section on Clean and Unclean Animals. Dietary laws distinguishing clean from unclean animals, teaching Israel holiness and separation from pagan practices.
The holiness demanded in Leviticus becomes possible through Christ, who both satisfies God's righteous requirements and transforms believers by His Spirit.