Leviticus 11:41

KJV

And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth [shall be] an abomination; it shall not be eaten.

KJV (with Strong's)

And every creeping thing {H8318} that creepeth {H8317} upon the earth {H776} shall be an abomination {H8263}; it shall not be eaten {H398}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Any creature that swarms on the ground is a detestable thing; it is not to be eaten -

Berean Standard Bible

Every creature that moves along the ground is detestable; it must not be eaten.

American Standard Version

And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth is an abomination; it shall not be eaten.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 11:41 stands as a definitive declaration within Israel's comprehensive dietary laws, explicitly prohibiting the consumption of "creeping things" that move upon the earth. This verse classifies such creatures as an "abomination" (Hebrew: *sheqets*), a term signifying extreme ritual impurity and profound detestability in God's sight. The prohibition underscores God's meticulous instructions for His covenant people, meticulously setting them apart from surrounding nations and reinforcing the foundational principles of holiness and purity that were to permeate every facet of their lives.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 11:41 is strategically positioned within a lengthy and detailed chapter dedicated to distinguishing between ritually clean and unclean animals, a cornerstone of the Mosaic Law. The chapter systematically delineates permissible and forbidden creatures, beginning with land animals based on their hooves and cud-chewing, then progressing to aquatic creatures, and subsequently to birds. Verse 41 specifically addresses "creeping things" (Hebrew: *sherets*), a broad and often ambiguous category of small, low-to-the-ground animals, serving as a climactic prohibition that concludes the primary lists of forbidden creatures. This verse functions as a strong, definitive statement, reinforcing the chapter's overarching theme of ritual purity and the meticulous separation required of Israel. The subsequent verses in [Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Animals") further elaborate on the defilement caused by touching the carcasses of these unclean animals, emphasizing the pervasive nature and seriousness of these purity laws within the covenant.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dietary laws of [Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - The Dietary Laws") were imparted to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, shortly after their miraculous exodus from Egypt, as an integral part of the covenant establishing them as God's holy nation. These regulations served multifaceted purposes: they distinguished Israel from the pagan nations around them, such as the Egyptians and later the Canaanites, whose dietary practices often involved animals considered unclean by Yahweh or were inextricably linked to idolatrous rituals. By adhering to these laws, Israel visibly demonstrated their unique identity and their unwavering commitment to Yahweh's holiness. The concept of "abomination" (Hebrew: *sheqets*) was far more than a mere dietary restriction; it carried profound theological weight, marking something as utterly repugnant to God, frequently associated with idolatry, severe moral transgressions, or practices that defiled the land, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 14:3](/deuteronomy/14-3 "Deuteronomy 14:3 - Do Not Eat Any Abominable Thing"). Thus, the prohibition against "creeping things" was a vital component in Israel's pursuit of ritual purity and their overall consecration unto God.

* **Key Themes:** The prohibition against "creeping things" in [Leviticus 11:41](/leviticus/11-41 "Leviticus 11:41 - Creeping Things an Abomination") is a specific manifestation of several overarching theological themes central to the book of Leviticus and the Mosaic Covenant. Foremost among these is the theme of **Holiness**, as God calls His people to be holy because He Himself is holy ([Leviticus 11:44-45](/leviticus/11-44-45 "Leviticus 11:44-45 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")). This verse, therefore, contributes to the theme of **Separation**, establishing clear boundaries between Israel and the defiling practices of surrounding nations, both ritually and ethically. The meticulous distinctions between clean and unclean animals serve as tangible reminders of God's perfect order and His demand for **Purity** in all aspects of life, from diet to worship. By adhering to these laws, Israel was continually reminded of their unique **Covenant Relationship** with Yahweh, demonstrating their obedience and reinforcing their identity as His chosen, consecrated people. Thus, the dietary laws, including this specific prohibition, were not arbitrary but deeply theological, designed to cultivate a consciousness of God's presence and His standards.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Creeping thing (Hebrew, _sherets'_):** This term (H8318) refers to a broad and often ambiguous category of small, swarming, or teeming creatures that move low to the ground. It encompasses a diverse range of animals, including various reptiles (like lizards and snakes), amphibians, and numerous invertebrates (such as insects and rodents). The word often carries a connotation of abundance and perhaps a sense of chaotic, uncontrolled, or even repulsive movement. In the context of purity laws, these creatures were frequently seen as blurring natural categories or being associated with the dust, decay, and disorder of the earth, contributing significantly to their classification as unclean.
* **Abomination (Hebrew, _sheqets'_):** Far stronger than merely "unclean" (Hebrew: *tameh*), *sheqets* (H8263) denotes something utterly detestable, abhorrent, or disgusting, particularly in a ritual, moral, or religious sense. It signifies a profound repugnance to God and His holiness, often implying a violation of divine order or a deep offense against God's character. The use of this potent term emphasizes the severity of the prohibition and the extreme ritual impurity associated with these creatures, making their consumption not just forbidden but profoundly defiling and offensive in God's sight.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And every creeping thing":** This introductory phrase precisely defines the specific category of animals being addressed. The Hebrew term *sherets* (H8318) implies a wide array of small, low-moving creatures, signifying a comprehensive and inclusive prohibition against anything that fits this description, leaving no room for ambiguity.
* **"that creepeth upon the earth":** This clause further specifies the habitat and characteristic movement of these creatures, distinguishing them from aquatic or aerial animals. The emphasis on their ground-hugging, often slithering, scuttling, or swarming motion, likely contributed to their classification as unclean, perhaps symbolically linking them to the dust of the earth and the curse pronounced upon the serpent in [Genesis 3:14](/genesis/3-14 "Genesis 3:14 - The Serpent's Curse").
* **"[shall be] an abomination;":** This declarative statement assigns a definitive and severe status to these creatures. The use of "abomination" (Hebrew: *sheqets*, H8263) elevates the prohibition beyond simple uncleanness to a level of extreme detestability in God's sight. This is a profound theological judgment, marking them as fundamentally opposed to the purity and order God demands of His people and His creation.
* **"it shall not be eaten.":** This is the direct, unequivocal, and absolute command. The "shall not" expresses an absolute prohibition, leaving no room for interpretation, exception, or compromise. The consequence of their "abominable" status is a strict and non-negotiable ban on consumption, reinforcing the clear boundary between the holy and the profane for the Israelites.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 11:41 employs several potent literary devices to convey its strong prohibition and theological significance. **Categorization** is evident in the precise classification of "creeping things" as a distinct group of forbidden animals, fitting within the broader taxonomic system of [Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Animals") that distinguishes between clean and unclean. The **repetition** of the verbal root *shârats* (H8317, "to creep") in the noun *sherets* (H8318, "creeping thing") and the verb "that creepeth" (H8317) creates a strong sense of emphasis, highlighting the characteristic movement that defines this category and reinforcing the prohibition. The use of the exceptionally strong term **"abomination"** (Hebrew: *sheqets*, H8263) serves as a form of **hyperbole** or **emphatic language**, elevating the prohibition from a mere dietary restriction to a matter of profound ritual and theological significance, underscoring the detestable nature of these creatures in God's eyes. Finally, the verse is characterized by **legal language**, employing direct, declarative, and absolute commands ("shall be," "shall not be eaten"), typical of covenant stipulations designed to establish clear boundaries for Israel's conduct, identity, and their relationship with a holy God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 11:41, like the entire chapter, is deeply rooted in the overarching theological theme of **holiness** that pervades the book of Leviticus. God’s command for Israel to be holy as He is holy ([Leviticus 11:44-45](/leviticus/11-44-45 "Leviticus 11:44-45 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")) necessitated a system of laws that would set them apart from the defilement of the world. The distinction between clean and unclean, particularly the strong declaration of "abomination" for certain creatures, served as a constant, tangible reminder of God's absolute purity and His demand for a separated, consecrated people. These dietary laws, therefore, were not merely about hygiene or health, but primarily about cultivating a distinct identity and a profound consciousness of God's presence, teaching Israel about the sacredness of life and the dangers of spiritual contamination. They were a visible, tangible expression of their covenant relationship with a holy God, guiding them in daily obedience and fostering a deeper understanding of purity as a reflection of divine character.

* [Leviticus 20:25](/leviticus/20-25 "Leviticus 20:25 - Distinguish Between Clean and Unclean")
* [Deuteronomy 14:3](/deuteronomy/14-3 "Deuteronomy 14:3 - You Shall Not Eat Any Abominable Thing")
* [Ezekiel 8:10](/zekiel/8-10 "Ezekiel 8:10 - Idolatry with Creeping Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific dietary prohibitions of Leviticus 11:41 are not directly binding on New Covenant believers, the underlying principles of holiness, separation, and obedience to God remain profoundly relevant and transformative. For ancient Israel, abstaining from "creeping things" was an outward sign of an inward commitment to God's standards and a visible marker of their unique identity as His chosen people. For us today, the call to holiness is transformed from ritualistic dietary restrictions to a spiritual and moral separation from the "creeping things" of sin and worldliness that can defile our hearts, minds, and spirits. We are called to discern and reject attitudes, behaviors, and influences that are an "abomination" to God's character, even if they are culturally accepted or widely practiced. This involves a conscious, Spirit-led choice to live distinctly, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our choices in media consumption, relationships, vocational pursuits, and leisure, ensuring that our lives consistently reflect the purity and righteousness of Christ. Our "diet" is now spiritual, requiring us to feed on truth and righteousness, and to abstain from anything that would compromise our walk with God or hinder our witness to the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "abomination" in Leviticus 11:41 deepen our understanding of God's character and His unwavering desire for purity in His people?**
* **In what practical and profound ways can we, as New Covenant believers, apply the principle of "separation unto God" in our daily lives, even without specific dietary laws?**
* **What "unclean" or "abominable" influences in contemporary culture might God be calling us to identify and avoid for the sake of our spiritual health and a clear conscience before Him?**

### FAQ
**Why were "creeping things" considered an abomination?**

Answer: The classification of "creeping things" as an "abomination" (Hebrew: *sheqets*) was multifaceted and deeply significant. Theologically, it underscored God's absolute holiness and His desire for Israel to reflect that purity in every aspect of their lives. From an ancient Israelite perspective, these creatures often blurred categories (e.g., reptiles are land animals but slither like fish or snakes, or insects that crawl but also fly), which could be perceived as disorderly or chaotic, contrasting with God's perfect, ordered creation. Their low-to-the-ground movement also symbolically linked them to the dust of the earth and the curse pronounced upon the serpent in [Genesis 3:14](/genesis/3-14 "Genesis 3:14 - The Serpent's Curse"). Furthermore, the term "abomination" served to strongly distinguish Israel from the practices of surrounding pagan nations, whose diets often included such creatures and whose worship involved detestable rituals, sometimes even involving these very animals.

**Does this verse apply to Christians today?**

Answer: The specific dietary laws of the Mosaic Covenant, including the prohibition in [Leviticus 11:41](/leviticus/11-41 "Leviticus 11:41 - Creeping Things an Abomination"), are not binding on New Covenant believers. The New Testament clarifies that all foods are declared clean through Christ. In [Mark 7:18-19](/mark/7-18-19 "Mark 7:18-19 - Jesus Declares All Foods Clean"), Jesus explicitly states that nothing outside a person can defile them when it enters, "thus declaring all foods clean." Peter's vision in [Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision of Unclean Animals") further illustrates God's declaration that what He has made clean should not be called unclean by humans, signifying the end of the ritualistic food laws. The New Covenant emphasizes spiritual purity and the transformation of the heart over external ritualistic dietary distinctions, as believers are made holy through faith in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The dietary laws, including the prohibition against "creeping things" in [Leviticus 11:41](/leviticus/11-41 "Leviticus 11:41 - Creeping Things an Abomination"), served as a vital "schoolmaster" ([Galatians 3:24](/galatians/3-24 "Galatians 3:24 - The Law as a Guardian")) to guide Israel to Christ. These regulations, with their meticulous distinctions between clean and unclean, continually highlighted the pervasive nature of defilement and the utter impossibility of achieving true, lasting purity through human effort or external adherence alone. They pointed to the ultimate need for a perfect sacrifice and a radical, internal transformation that only God could provide. Jesus Christ fulfills these laws by addressing the very root of impurity: sin in the human heart, which truly defiles a person ([Mark 7:20-23](/mark/7-20-23 "Mark 7:20-23 - What Comes Out of a Person Defiles Them")). He is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making those who believe in Him truly clean and holy, not by adherence to external dietary codes, but by the cleansing power of His blood and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3-4 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law and the Spirit")). In Christ, the emphasis shifts from external prohibitions to internal purity, calling believers to a spiritual separation from the "creeping things" of sin, idolatry, and worldliness that truly defile and separate us from God's holy presence ([2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Come Out From Among Them")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 11:29

These also [shall be] unclean unto you among the creeping things that creep upon the earth; the weasel, and the mouse, and the tortoise after his kind,

Leviticus 11:23

But all [other] flying creeping things, which have four feet, [shall be] an abomination unto you.

Leviticus 11:20

¶ All fowls that creep, going upon [all] four, [shall be] an abomination unto you.