READ LEVITICUS 11
It is crucial to comprehend, while going through Leviticus (the legal book of the Pentateuch), that studying the laws of Israel is significant as they reflect the will of God. The title Leviticus signifies "relating to the Levites." Israel was distinctive as a theocracy, with God as its leader. Before the introduction of kings in Israel, the priests (or Levites) were tasked with overseeing the implementation of Israel's laws. Chapter 11 of Leviticus is renowned for its regulations concerning food.
Some scholars propose that Yahweh (the formal name of God) designated certain animals as unclean to safeguard Israel from being excessively influenced by cultures that worshipped different gods. For instance, the Hittites offered pigs in sacrifice to gods of the underworld connected with malevolent spirits. Generally, many Near Eastern societies viewed pigs (and dogs) with disdain due to their role as scavengers.
In Exodus 15:26, the Israelites were directed to "hearken [listen] to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee." According to Deuteronomy 7:15-16, "And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee. And thou shalt consume all the people which the LORD thy God shall deliver thee; thine eye shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods; for that will be a snare unto thee." To sum up, the well-being of God's people was a significant concern to Him; therefore, regulations on diet, cleansing, and isolation were essential to safeguard the health of Israel.
The Israelites were evidently unaware of bacteria, parasites, and other organisms that could pose a threat to them and thus could not comprehend the rationales behind these dietary limitations. Pigs transmit trichinosis, and rabbits spread tularemia. Fish without fins and scales are often scavengers and prone to parasites. The dietary and cleanliness regulations prescribed by God were meant to ultimately ensure their protection.
Similar to the ancient Israelites, we may not always grasp the rationale behind God's laws, deeds, or directives; however, we worship a God who, as described by David in Psalm 23, is a God of "goodness and faithfulness" who pursues us throughout our lives.
QUESTIONS
1. Just like the Israelites may not have comprehended the rationale behind the dietary laws, are there aspects of your life that remain unclear to you?
2. Do you place your trust in God concerning these areas that are not fully understood?
3. Webster's definition of 'holy' is described as something deserving complete dedication. In verse 45, God prompts the Israelites that He rescued them from Egypt; hence, they should be holy as He is holy. Are there parts of your life that require a commitment to God?