TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Deuteronomy 14:1–21. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Moses here tells the people of Israel,
I.How God had dignified them, as a peculiar people, with three distinguishing privileges, which were their honour, and figures of those spiritual blessings in heavenly things with which God has in Christ blessed us.
1.Here is election: The Lord hath chosen thee, v:
2.Not for their own merit, nor for any good works foreseen, but because he would magnify the riches of his power and grace among them. He did not choose them because they were by their own dedication and subjection a peculiar people to him above other nations, but he chose them that they might be so by his grace; and thus were believers chosen, Eph 1:4. 2. Here is adoption (Deu 14:1): "You are the children of the Lord your God, formed by him into a people, owned by him as his people, nay, his family, a people near unto him, nearer than any other." Israel is my son, my first-born; not because he needed children, but because they were orphans, and needed a father. Every Israelite is indeed a child of God, a partaker of his nature and favour, his love and blessing Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us! 3. Here is sanctification (Deu 14:2): "Thou art a holy people, separated and set apart for God, devoted to his service, designed for his praise, governed by a holy law, graced by a holy tabernacle, and the holy ordinances relating to it." God's people are under the strongest obligations to be holy, and, if they are holy, are indebted to the grace of God that makes them so. The Lord has set them apart for himself, and qualified them for his service and the enjoyment of him, and so has made them holy to himself.
II.How they ought to distinguish themselves by a sober singularity from all the nations that were about them.
And, God having thus advanced them, let not them debase themselves by admitting the superstitious customs of idolaters, and, by making themselves like them, put themselves upon the level with them. Be you the children of the Lord your God; so the Seventy read it, as a command, that is, "Carry yourselves as becomes the children of God, and do nothing to disgrace the honour and forfeit the privileges of the relation." In two things particularly they must distinguish themselves: -
1.In their mourning: You shall not cut yourselves, Deu 14:1. This forbids (as some think), not only their cutting themselves at their funerals, either to express their grief or with their own blood to appease the infernal deities, but their wounding and mangling themselves in the worship of their gods, as Baal's prophets did (Kg1 18:28), or their marking themselves by incisions in their flesh for such and such deities, which in them, above any, would be an inexcusable crime, who in the sign of circumcision bore about with them in their bodies the marks of the Lord Jehovah. So that,
(1.)They are forbidden to deform or hurt their own bodies upon any account. Methinks this is like a parent's change to his little children, that are foolish, careless, and wilful, and are apt to play with knives: Children, you shall not cut yourselves. This is the intention of those commands which oblige us to deny ourselves; the true meaning of them, if we understood them aright, would appear to be, Do yourselves no harm. And this also is the design of those providences which most cross us, to remove from us those things by which we are in danger of doing ourselves harm. Knives are taken from us, lest we should cut ourselves. Those that are dedicated to God as a holy people must do nothing to disfigure themselves; the body is for the Lord, and is to be used accordingly.
(2.)They are forbidden to disturb and afflict their own minds with inordinate grief for the loss of near and dear relations: "You shall not express or exasperate you sorrow, even upon the most mournful occasions, by cutting yourselves, and making baldness between your eyes, like men enraged, or resolvedly hardened in sorrow for the dead, as those that have no hope," Th1 4:13. It is an excellent passage which Mr. Ainsworth here quotes from one of the Jewish writers, who understands this as a law against immoderate grief for the death of our relations. If your father (for instance) die, you shall not cut yourselves, that is, you shall not sorrow more than is meet, for you are not fatherless, you have a Father, who is great, living, and permanent, even the holy blessed God, whose children you are, Deu 14:1. But an infidel (says he), when his father dies, hath no father that can help him in time of need; for he hath said to a stock, Thou art my father, and to a stone, Thou hast brought me forth (Jer 2:27); therefore he weeps, cuts himself, and makes himself bald. We that have a God to hope in, and a heaven to hope for, must bear up ourselves with that hope under every burden of this kind.
2.They must be singular in their meat. Observe,
(1.)Many sorts of flesh which were wholesome enough, and which other people did commonly eat, they must religiously abstain from as unclean. This law we had before Lev 11:2, where it was largely opened. It seems plainly, by the connection here, to be intended as a mark of peculiarity; for their observance of it would cause them to be taken notice of in all mixed companies as a separate people, and would preserve them from mingling themselves with, and conforming themselves to, their idolatrous neighbours.
[1.]Concerning beasts, here is a more particular enumeration of those which they were allowed to eat then was in Leviticus, to show that they had no reason to complain of their being restrained from eating swines' flesh, and hares, and rabbits (which were all that were then forbidden, but are now commonly used), when they were allowed so great a variety, not only of that which we call butcher's meat (Deu 14:4), which alone was offered in sacrifice, but of venison, which they had great plenty of in Canaan, the hart, and the roe-buck, and the fallow deer (Deu 14:5), which, though never brought to God's altar, was allowed them at their own table. See Deu 12:22. When of all these (as Adam of every tree of the garden) they might freely eat, those were inexcusable who, to gratify a perverse appetite, or (as should seem) in honour of their idols, and in participation of their idolatrous sacrifices, ate swines' flesh, and had broth of abominable things (made so by this law) in their vessels, Isa 65:4.
[2.]Concerning fish there is only one general rule given, that whatsoever had not fins and scales (as shell-fish and eels, besides leeches and other animals in the water that are not proper food) was unclean and forbidden, Deu 14:9, Deu 14:10.
[3.]No general rule is given concerning fowl, but those are particularly mentioned that were to be unclean to them, and there are few or none of them which are here forbidden that are now commonly eaten; and whatsoever is not expressly forbidden is allowed, Deu 14:11-20. Of all clean fowls you may eat.
[4.]They are further forbidden, First, To eat the flesh of any creature that died of itself, because the blood was not separated from it, and, besides the ceremonial uncleanness which it lay under (from Lev 11:39), it is not wholesome food, nor ordinarily used among us, except by the poor. Secondly, To seethe a kid in its mother's milk, either to gratify their own luxury, supposing it a dainty bit, or in conformity to some superstitious custom of the heathen. The Chaldee paraphrasts read it, Thou shalt not eat flesh - meats and milk - meats together; and so it would forbid the use of butter as sauce to any flesh.
(2.)Now as to all these precepts concerning their food,
[1.]It is plain in the law itself that they belonged only to the Jews, and were not moral, nor of perpetual use, because not of universal obligation; for what they might not eat themselves they might give to a stranger, a proselyte of the gate, that had renounced idolatry, and therefore was permitted to live among them, though not circumcised; or they might sell it to an alien, a mere Gentile, that came into their country for trade, but might not settle it, Deu 14:21. They might feed upon that which an Israelite might not touch, which is a plain instance of their peculiarity, and their being a holy people.
[2.]It is plain in the gospel that they are now antiquated and repealed. For every creature of God is good, and nothing now to be refused, or called common and unclean, Ti1 4:4.
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Summary
Deuteronomy 14:12 initiates a specific enumeration of birds forbidden for consumption by the Israelites, naming the eagle, ossifrage, and ospray. This verse is an integral part of the broader dietary laws (kashrut) divinely instituted through Moses, designed to consecrate Israel as a holy nation distinct from surrounding pagan cultures. These prohibitions served not only as practical guidelines for daily life but also as profound symbolic reminders of Israel's unique covenant relationship with Yahweh, emphasizing the principles of purity, discernment, and unwavering obedience as they prepared to inherit the Promised Land.
Context
Literary Context
Deuteronomy 14:12 is strategically positioned within a larger corpus of laws and statutes (Deuteronomy 12-26) that Moses reiterates and profoundly expounds to the new generation of Israelites. This address takes place on the plains of Moab, on the precipice of their entry into the land of Canaan. Specifically, Deuteronomy 14:3-20 meticulously outlines the dietary regulations concerning clean and unclean animals, fish, and birds. Verse 12 marks the precise commencement of the detailed list of birds deemed ritually unclean, following a general divine injunction to consume only what is clean and to scrupulously avoid anything designated as an "abomination" (Deuteronomy 14:3). This specific enumeration of forbidden birds continues through Deuteronomy 14:13-18, presenting a parallel, though not entirely identical, list to that found in Leviticus 11:13-19. The immediate literary flow underscores the practical, daily outworking of Israel's covenant identity, particularly concerning food, which was a fundamental and culturally significant aspect of ancient existence and social interaction.
Historical & Cultural Context
The promulgation of these dietary laws occurred at a pivotal moment: Israel stood on the threshold of the Promised Land, a territory teeming with diverse Canaanite peoples, each possessing their own distinct religious practices and culinary traditions. These laws functioned as a potent boundary marker, reinforcing Israel's unique identity and serving as a crucial safeguard against assimilation into pagan cultures where food often played a central role in idolatrous worship or communal meals with gentiles. Birds of prey and scavengers, such as those explicitly listed in Deuteronomy 14:12, were frequently associated with death, decay, and ritual impurity in the broader ancient Near East. In some cultures, they were even utilized in divination practices or pagan rituals. By prohibiting the consumption of such creatures, God was not merely imposing arbitrary rules; rather, He was establishing a tangible framework for a holy lifestyle, meticulously protecting Israel from spiritual contamination and profoundly reinforcing their identity as a people consecrated exclusively to Yahweh. The geographical setting, on the very edge of a new and potentially corrupting land, significantly amplified the importance of these identity-shaping commands.
Key Themes
The dietary laws, including the specific prohibitions articulated in Deuteronomy 14:12, contribute profoundly to several overarching theological themes prevalent throughout Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of holiness and distinction, as God unequivocally calls His people to be holy, just as He is holy, thereby setting them apart from all other nations (Leviticus 11:44). The dietary regulations provided a practical, daily, and pervasive means for Israel to embody this sacred separation. Another critical theme is obedience and covenant faithfulness. Adhering to these detailed divine instructions was a tangible and visible expression of Israel's unwavering commitment to their covenant relationship with God, demonstrating their profound trust and submission to His supreme divine authority. Furthermore, the deliberate selection of specific birds, particularly those renowned for predatory or scavenging behaviors, subtly introduces the theme of discernment. While not explicitly stated, the inherent nature of these animals often symbolized impurity, violence, or an association with death, implicitly guiding the Israelites towards a lifestyle characterized by purity, life, and moral uprightness, thereby reflecting God's own perfect character.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From a primitive root, this verb signifies to consume food, whether literally or figuratively. In the context of Deuteronomy 14:12, it refers to the literal act of ingesting the flesh of animals. Its prohibition here underscores the absolute nature of the divine command regarding dietary purity, making it clear that these specific birds are entirely off-limits for consumption.
Derived from an unused root signifying "to lacerate," this term broadly refers to large birds of prey, often translated as "eagle" or "vulture." In ancient Israel, the nesher was revered as a powerful and majestic bird, frequently employed in Scripture as a symbol of strength, swiftness, and even divine protection (e.g., Exodus 19:4). However, its predatory nature and propensity for consuming carrion rendered it ritually unclean, emphasizing the distinction between clean and unclean based on diet and behavior.
This term is likely derived from the Hebrew root pāraṣ, meaning "to break or burst forth," and refers to a type of eagle or vulture, specifically the bearded vulture or lammergeier. This large raptor is infamous for its unique feeding habit of carrying bones high into the air and dropping them onto rocks to crack them open and consume the marrow. Its Hebrew name, pereç, directly references this "breaking" characteristic, further highlighting its association with death, decay, and a particularly "unclean" method of obtaining sustenance.
Probably derived from a root related to "strength" or "talons," this bird is believed to be the fishing hawk or sea-eagle, a raptor that primarily preys on fish. Like the other birds listed, its predatory nature, specifically its consumption of living creatures, rendered it unclean according to the Mosaic Law. Its inclusion demonstrates that the prohibition extended beyond land-based scavengers to include powerful aquatic predators, reinforcing a comprehensive standard of ritual purity.
Verse Breakdown
"But these [are they] of which ye shall not eat:"
This introductory clause functions as a clear and emphatic prohibition, serving as a divine mandate that sets apart the subsequent list of birds as strictly forbidden for consumption. The phrase underscores the absolute and non-negotiable nature of the command, leaving no ambiguity regarding these specific creatures for the Israelites.
"the eagle,"
This specifies the first forbidden bird, the nesher, a large, powerful bird of prey. Its inclusion immediately establishes the category of birds being prohibited: those characterized by predatory behavior or scavenging habits, often associated with impurity due to their diet or methods of obtaining food. This sets the tone for the types of creatures to be avoided.
"and the ossifrage,"
The inclusion of the pereç (bearded vulture) further emphasizes the prohibition against scavengers and birds that consume carrion or the remains of dead animals. Its distinctive method of breaking bones to access marrow highlights a particularly "unclean" characteristic in the ancient mindset, reinforcing the concept of ritual purity and the avoidance of anything associated with death or decay.
"and the ospray,"
The ʻoznîyâh (fishing hawk) completes this initial trio, broadening the category to include raptors that prey on fish. This demonstrates that the prohibition was not limited to land-based predators or scavengers but extended to aquatic predators as well, reinforcing a comprehensive and pervasive standard of purity that permeated all aspects of the Israelites' lives.
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 14:12 primarily employs Enumeration, systematically listing specific examples of forbidden birds to provide clear, actionable, and unambiguous instructions. This direct cataloging serves to precisely define the boundaries of acceptable dietary behavior, leaving no room for misinterpretation for the Israelites concerning these particular creatures. The deliberate choice of birds—the eagle, ossifrage, and ospray—also functions as potent Symbolism. These birds, being quintessential birds of prey or scavengers, implicitly symbolize impurity, death, and predatory behavior, standing in stark contrast to the life, purity, and holiness that God desires for His covenant people. The very act of naming them and explicitly prohibiting their consumption reinforces the broader theological concept of Distinction and Separation, which is a pervasive and foundational theme woven throughout the entire book of Deuteronomy, emphasizing Israel's unique identity as a people set apart for Yahweh.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Deuteronomy 14:12, as an integral component of the broader dietary laws, stands as a powerful theological declaration concerning God's unwavering desire for a consecrated people. These laws were far from arbitrary regulations; rather, they were profoundly imbued with spiritual significance, meticulously designed to instruct Israel about the intrinsic nature of holiness, the paramount importance of obedience, and their unique identity as God's specially chosen nation. By meticulously distinguishing between clean and unclean, God powerfully impressed upon His people the indispensable need for discernment in all areas of life, thereby reflecting His own perfect and unblemished purity. While the literal dietary laws of the Old Covenant are no longer binding for New Testament believers, the underlying principles of spiritual discernment, radical separation from the defilements of the world, and unwavering obedience to God's revealed will remain eternally and profoundly relevant for all who follow Christ.
Reflection and Application
While the specific dietary prohibitions articulated in Deuteronomy 14:12 are part of the Old Covenant and are not literally binding on New Testament believers, the spiritual principles they embody offer profound and enduring insights for contemporary Christian living. This verse serves as a powerful call to a life of spiritual discernment, urging us to carefully and prayerfully consider what we "consume" in our lives—extending beyond mere food to encompass the ideas, cultural influences, entertainment, and relationships we permit to enter and shape our minds and hearts. Just as God called ancient Israel to be distinct and set apart from the surrounding pagan nations, believers today are called to be consecrated and radically different from the prevailing patterns and values of the world, thereby reflecting God's holiness in our every action, choice, and the very essence of our character. Our willing and joyful obedience to God's moral and spiritual commands serves as a tangible demonstration of our profound love and unwavering trust in Him, affirming His sovereign authority over every single aspect of our lives. Ultimately, this passage invites us to embrace a life wholly consecrated to God, diligently striving for purity and integrity in a world that frequently compromises these divine values.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Were these dietary laws arbitrary, or did they have a deeper purpose for ancient Israel?
The dietary laws, including the prohibitions specifically mentioned in Deuteronomy 14:12, were far from arbitrary. They served multiple, intricately interconnected purposes, primarily theological and pedagogical. The foremost purpose was theological: to establish, reinforce, and visibly manifest Israel's identity as a holy nation, uniquely set apart for God. By adhering to these distinctive regulations, Israel visibly and practically demonstrated their exclusive covenant relationship with Yahweh, thereby distinguishing themselves sharply from the pagan nations surrounding them. Additionally, there were significant pedagogical purposes, as these laws served to teach the Israelites profound lessons about purity, discernment, and the critical importance of obedience to divine commands. While some scholars propose potential health benefits, the biblical text overwhelmingly emphasizes the spiritual, identity-forming, and symbolic aspects, underscoring God's desire for a people consecrated to Him in every single facet of their existence.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Deuteronomy 14:12, with its specific prohibitions against the consumption of unclean birds, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound transformation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament dietary laws, including those meticulously detailed in Deuteronomy, served as a "shadow" pointing forward to the spiritual realities and profound freedom of the New Covenant (Colossians 2:16-17). Jesus Himself authoritatively declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), and Peter's transformative vision in Acts 10:9-16 explicitly revealed that God no longer distinguishes between clean and unclean foods, powerfully symbolizing the radical inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant people of God. The true "uncleanliness" that fundamentally separates humanity from God is sin, not external dietary choices. Christ, as the perfect and spotless Lamb of God, bore the full weight of the world's impurity and sin on the cross, thereby making all who believe in Him spiritually clean and truly righteous (Hebrews 9:14). Thus, the ancient call for holiness and distinction, once expressed through external and ritualistic dietary laws, is now gloriously realized internally through the indwelling Holy Spirit, empowering believers to live lives of profound spiritual purity and genuine separation from the world's defilements, not by what they eat, but by what they embrace in their hearts and minds, for the kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).