This verse teaches that certain locusts and similar jumping insects were permissible to eat when carefully distinguished from other winged insects.
Yet these you may eat among all the winged insects which walk on all fours: those which have above their feet jointed legs with which to jump on the earth. (v.21)
In Leviticus 11:21, the LORD’s dietary laws include a specific provision allowing certain winged insects to be eaten, provided they possess jointed legs above their feet for hopping. This distinctive physical trait separates these insects from others deemed unclean. By stating “Yet these you may eat…” Scripture makes clear there is an exception to the broader prohibition against insects that “walk on all fours,” indicating that some insects—namely locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers—may be consumed without violating Israel’s ceremonial purity.
This verse underscores the importance of discerning between what God defines as clean and unclean, a principle of obedience that would help set God’s people apart. It also serves as a reminder that holiness can extend to simple, everyday matters like choosing food, reflecting a broader call to follow God’s mandates in heart, mind, and conduct. Centuries later, Jesus would teach that genuine purity ultimately stems from the heart (Mark 7:18-23), whereas passages like Leviticus 11:21 guided ancient Israel with tangible, external ways to exhibit faithful conformity to God’s law.
Beyond the immediate context, this instruction correlates with Deuteronomy 14:19-20, highlighting how the Lord made consistent dietary distinctions for His chosen nation. These regulations not only promoted physical well-being and ceremonial purity, but they also reminded Israel of their special covenant relationship with God—a privilege that carried the blessing of demonstrating His holiness in practical ways.
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Leviticus 11:21 meaning
Yet these you may eat among all the winged insects which walk on all fours: those which have above their feet jointed legs with which to jump on the earth. (v.21)
In Leviticus 11:21, the LORD’s dietary laws include a specific provision allowing certain winged insects to be eaten, provided they possess jointed legs above their feet for hopping. This distinctive physical trait separates these insects from others deemed unclean. By stating “Yet these you may eat…” Scripture makes clear there is an exception to the broader prohibition against insects that “walk on all fours,” indicating that some insects—namely locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers—may be consumed without violating Israel’s ceremonial purity.
This verse underscores the importance of discerning between what God defines as clean and unclean, a principle of obedience that would help set God’s people apart. It also serves as a reminder that holiness can extend to simple, everyday matters like choosing food, reflecting a broader call to follow God’s mandates in heart, mind, and conduct. Centuries later, Jesus would teach that genuine purity ultimately stems from the heart (Mark 7:18-23), whereas passages like Leviticus 11:21 guided ancient Israel with tangible, external ways to exhibit faithful conformity to God’s law.
Beyond the immediate context, this instruction correlates with Deuteronomy 14:19-20, highlighting how the Lord made consistent dietary distinctions for His chosen nation. These regulations not only promoted physical well-being and ceremonial purity, but they also reminded Israel of their special covenant relationship with God—a privilege that carried the blessing of demonstrating His holiness in practical ways.