Leviticus 11:20

French Jerusalem 1998

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What Does This Mean?

This verse from Leviticus says that certain flying insects that walk on four legs should be considered unclean. God is speaking to the Israelites, instructing them on what creatures they should avoid.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a toy box with rules about which toys are okay to play with and which ones aren't. This verse is like one of those rules, telling the Israelites which flying bugs they shouldn't touch or eat.

Historical Background

Leviticus was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BCE to the Israelites. It contains laws and instructions from God to guide the Israelites' daily life and worship. The cultural setting emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and separation from impurities.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse reminds us of the importance of following guidelines and rules. For example, if your workplace has specific health and safety regulations, following them is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment.

Topics

• Cleanliness
• Sanctification
• Purity
• Guidelines
• God's Instructions
• Ancient Israel

Related Verses

• Leviticus 11:41
• Leviticus 11:42
• Deuteronomy 14:19
• Mark 7:19
• Romans 14:14

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are certain insects considered unclean?

Certain insects were considered unclean to maintain health and to separate the Israelites from the practices of other cultures, emphasizing God's standards.

How does this verse apply to Christians today?

Christians today may see this verse as a reminder of the importance of following God's guidelines and maintaining purity in their lives, though the specific dietary laws are not binding.

What insects does Leviticus 11:20 specifically refer to?

The verse refers to flying insects that have four legs, such as certain types of crawling insects that fly, like locusts or grasshoppers.

How does this relate to the broader themes of Leviticus?

This verse is part of a larger section on dietary laws, which aims to set the Israelites apart and ensure their physical and spiritual purity.