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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 11 - Verse 10

11:10
And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you:

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Leviticus in the Bible, it is stated that any aquatic creature that does not have fins and scales is considered an abomination. This verse is part of the dietary laws given to the Israelites by God through Moses. The purpose of these dietary laws was to set apart the Israelites as a holy people, distinct from other nations. By abstaining from certain types of seafood, such as shellfish and crustaceans, the Israelites were symbolically demonstrating their obedience to God's commands and their commitment to living a righteous life. The concept of ritual purity and cleanliness is also emphasized through these dietary restrictions. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites to be mindful of what they consume and to follow the guidelines set forth by God in order to maintain their spiritual purity.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the prohibition against eating aquatic creatures without fins and scales is highlighted. This restriction is found in the dietary laws outlined in the book of Leviticus in the Old Testament. The theological interpretation of this commandment is often viewed as a way for God to set apart the Israelites as a holy people, distinct from other nations. Some scholars also believe that the dietary laws were given for health and hygiene reasons, as creatures with fins and scales tend to be healthier to consume. Additionally, this verse underscores the idea of purity and holiness, emphasizing the importance of following God's regulations and showing respect for His creation. Word studies on terms like 'abomination' reveal the seriousness of disobeying this commandment and the significance of adhering to God's instructions. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites to obey God's laws and trust in His wisdom.

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