28 Mar
Why are certain animals "Clean and Unclean"?
Q. We just started reading the book of Leviticus, and I was wondering: What are the criteria of “Clean and Unclean” certain animals. I would like to know more about the historical background of the dietary laws
A. The term “clean” and “unclean” are simply figures of speech used to describe what is considered to be an acceptable type of sacrifice for the altar.
In historical terms, since the ancient Israelites were a pastoral people, it was only natural they would use various flock animals as their offerings. That, in my honest opinion, seems to be the simplest explanation, but there are certain wild animals that are “clean” in so far as they may be eaten, but are, nevertheless, not to be brought to the altar for ritual sacrifice. The wild ox or the giraffe are obvious and well-known examples. Some commentaries point out the reason for these animals are not to be brought to the altar was due to practical considerations; these creatures are not easily found like the flock animals are.
According to the anthropologist Mary Douglas, the terms “unclean” and “clean” are not to be construed as an indictment against their essential character as God’s creation. Quite the opposite: “Unclean is not a term of psychological horror and disgust, it is a technical term for the cult, as commentators have often pointed out. To import feelings into the translation falsifies, and creates more puzzles. The technique of delayed completion postpones the meanings until chapter 17. At that point Leviticus commands the people not to eat blood, not to eat an animal that has died an unconsecrated death, that is, an animal that has died of itself, or an animal torn by beasts, presumably with its blood still in it (Lev 17:8-16; see also Deut 14:21). The dietary laws thus support the law against unconsecrated killing. The Leviticus writer’s reverential attitude to life, animal and human, explains the animal corpse pollution rules. ‘Thou shalt not stand upon [profit from] another’s blood’ (Lev. 19:16). The case of the animal’s blood and the case of the human’s blood are parallel. Ritual impurity imposes God’s order on his creation.”
