leviticus 11

Summary
Outlines the dietary laws given by God to the Israelites, specifying which animals are considered clean and unclean for consumption.

Key Points
- The Lord speaks to Moses and Aaron, giving them instructions on which animals may be eaten and which are to be avoided (Leviticus 11:1-2).
- Land animals that have a split hoof and chew the cud are considered clean, while those that do not meet both criteria are unclean (Leviticus 11:3-8).
- Sea creatures with fins and scales are clean, but those without fins and scales are unclean (Leviticus 11:9-12).
- Certain birds are listed as unclean and not to be eaten, including eagles, vultures, and ravens (Leviticus 11:13-19).
- Winged insects that walk on all fours are unclean, except for those that have jointed legs for hopping, such as locusts and grasshoppers (Leviticus 11:20-23).
- The Israelites are instructed to avoid contact with the carcasses of unclean animals, as touching them makes a person unclean until evening (Leviticus 11:24-28).
- Specific instructions are given regarding the handling of dead animals and the purification process for those who become unclean (Leviticus 11:29-40).
- The chapter concludes with a reminder that the Israelites are to be holy because God is holy, and they are to distinguish between clean and unclean animals (Leviticus 11:41-47).