King James Version

What Does Leviticus 11:1 Mean?

And the LORD spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying unto them,

Context

1

And the LORD spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying unto them,

2

Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These are the beasts which ye shall eat among all the beasts that are on the earth.

3

Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted , and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
XI. (1) **And the Lord spake unto Moses and to Aaron.**—Lest the rebuke which Moses publicly administered to the priests (see Leviticus 10:16) should diminish their influence with the people, whom they had to teach the laws of clean and unclean things (see Leviticus 10:10-11) laid down in the following chapters, the Lord here honours Aaron, as well as Moses, by making this communication to them conjointly. Besides, Aaron as minister was as much concerned in these laws as Moses the legislator. Hence, when a question of defilement had afterwards to be decided, it was brought for judgment before Moses and Aaron conjointly. (See Numbers 9:6.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 11:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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