The carcases of every beast which divideth the hoof, and is not clovenfooted, nor cheweth the cud, are unclean unto you: every one that toucheth them shall be unclean.
The dead bodies of any animal that has split hooves but doesn't have completely divided hooves and doesn't chew cud are unclean for you. Anyone who touches these dead animals will become unclean.
God is teaching the Israelites that certain animal carcasses make them ceremonially unclean and shouldn't be touched.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of God's detailed dietary and cleanliness laws given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. These laws helped distinguish Israel from surrounding nations and taught principles of holiness and separation. The distinction between clean and unclean animals served both practical health purposes and spiritual symbolism about purity before God.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.