(The Lord speaking is red text)
Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that [shall be] an abomination unto you.
Whatever lacks fins and scales in the water is a detestable thing for you.
Everything in the water that does not have fins and scales shall be detestable to you.
Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that is an abomination unto you.
Whatsoever hath no fins{H5579} nor scales{H7193} in the waters{H4325}, that shall be an abomination{H8263} unto you.
1. **Themes:**
- **Ritual Purity and Holiness:** Leviticus 11:12 is part of a larger section in the book that deals with dietary laws, which were meant to distinguish the Israelites from other nations and emphasize their holiness before God.
- **Classification of Clean and Unclean Animals:** The verse reflects the biblical categorization of animals into "clean" and "unclean" for consumption, which was a significant aspect of the Mosaic Law.
- **Observance of God's Commandments:** This verse underscores the importance of adhering to God's laws as a demonstration of faith and obedience.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **Post-Exodus Period:** The book of Leviticus is set after the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and before their entry into the Promised Land, during the time they were encamped at Mount Sinai.
- **Mosaic Legislation:** The verse is part of the Mosaic Law, given to Moses by God. These laws were designed to shape the religious and social life of the Israelite community.
- **Cultural Distinction:** The dietary laws served to separate the Israelites from surrounding nations, reinforcing their unique identity and relationship with God.
- **Health and Hygiene:** Some scholars suggest that these dietary restrictions may have had health benefits, as many of the forbidden animals could be carriers of disease or parasites.
In summary, Leviticus 11:12 encapsulates the theme of maintaining ritual purity and holiness as a set-apart people through the observance of specific dietary laws regarding aquatic creatures, which was integral to the religious identity and practice of ancient Israel.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)