Leviticus 11:7

And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be clovenfooted, yet he cheweth not the cud; he [is] unclean to you.

And the swine {H2386}, though he divide {H6536} the hoof {H6541}, and be clovenfooted {H8156}{H8157}, yet he cheweth {H1641} not the cud {H1625}; he is unclean {H2931} to you.

while the pig is unclean for you, because, although it has a separate and completely divided hoof, it doesn't chew the cud.

And the pig, though it has a split hoof completely divided, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.

And the swine, because he parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted, but cheweth not the cud, he is unclean unto you.

Commentary

Context of Leviticus 11:7

Leviticus 11:7 is part of a detailed section in the Old Testament outlining the dietary laws God gave to the Israelites. This chapter specifies which animals were considered "clean" (fit for consumption) and "unclean" (forbidden). These regulations were not merely about hygiene, but primarily served to distinguish Israel as a holy nation set apart for God, emphasizing purity in all aspects of their lives. The verse specifically addresses the swine (pig), a prominent example of an animal deemed unclean.

Understanding "Unclean"

The KJV states the swine "is unclean to you." The Hebrew word for "unclean" is tameh, which signifies ritual impurity. It means something is ceremonially defiling and unsuitable for sacred use or consumption, preventing one from participating in worship until purification. For land animals, the criteria for being "clean" were twofold: the animal must both have a divided or cloven hoof AND chew the cud. The pig, while having a divided hoof, does not chew the cud, thus failing one of the essential requirements and being classified as unclean. This was a clear command, setting Israel apart from the surrounding cultures that commonly consumed pork.

Key Themes and Significance

  • Holiness and Distinction: The dietary laws, including the prohibition of swine, were central to God's command for Israel to be holy as He is holy. These laws created a tangible boundary between Israel and pagan nations, reinforcing their unique identity as God's chosen people.
  • Obedience to Divine Command: The injunction against eating pork was a direct test of obedience. Adhering to these specific, sometimes seemingly arbitrary, rules demonstrated faith and submission to God's authority.
  • Purity and Separation: The concept of "unclean" extended beyond just food, encompassing ritual, moral, and physical purity. The dietary laws instilled a disciplined approach to life that fostered a constant awareness of God's standards.

New Testament Perspective and Application

While the Old Testament dietary laws, including the prohibition against swine, were foundational for ancient Israel, the New Covenant brings a new understanding. Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), and Peter's vision in Acts 10 further clarified that ceremonial food distinctions were abolished for believers. This reflects a shift from external ritual purity to internal heart purity and freedom in Christ (see also Romans 14:1-4). However, the underlying principles of holiness, obedience, and being set apart for God remain vital for believers today. We are called to be distinct in our character and conduct, reflecting God's nature in our lives, rather than through specific dietary restrictions.

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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 66:3 (6 votes)

    He that killeth an ox [is as if] he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, [as if] he cut off a dog's neck; he that offereth an oblation, [as if he offered] swine's blood; he that burneth incense, [as if] he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations.

  • Isaiah 65:4 (6 votes)

    Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable [things is in] their vessels;

  • Isaiah 66:17 (6 votes)

    They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens behind one [tree] in the midst, eating swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together, saith the LORD.

  • Deuteronomy 14:8 (6 votes)

    And the swine, because it divideth the hoof, yet cheweth not the cud, it [is] unclean unto you: ye shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcase.

  • Luke 8:33 (4 votes)

    Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked.

  • Luke 15:15 (4 votes)

    And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

  • Matthew 7:6 (4 votes)

    Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.