Leviticus 11:7

"The hare, because it chews the cud but doesn’t have a parted hoof, is unclean to you."

Key Reflection

In Leviticus 11:7, the inclusion of the hare among unclean animals, despite its ability to chew the cud like ruminants, emphasizes God's specific standards for dietary purity that go beyond mere observable characteristics. This detail underscores the importance of obedience to divine instruction over human reasoning or natural categorizations.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

He divide the hoof ... -It is cloven-footed and completely, etc. SeeLeviticus 11:3note. Of all the quadrupeds of which the Law forbids the flesh to be eaten, the pig seems to have been regarded as the most unclean. Compare the marginal references. Several other nations have agreed with the Hebrews in this respect: the reason being that its flesh is unwholesome, especially in warm climates.

More from Leviticus 11

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