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The story in Leviticus 11








 In the ancient days, when the people of Israel journeyed through the wilderness, they were guided by the laws given to them by God through Moses. Among these laws were instructions about what they could and could not eat—a sacred code meant to keep them holy and set apart from other nations.

One day, Moses gathered the people and said, "Hear the words of the Lord concerning the animals you may eat and those you must not. These laws will protect you and teach you to live in obedience to God."

He began to explain: "Of all the creatures that live on the earth, only those that have cloven hooves and chew the cud are clean for you to eat. The ox, the sheep, and the deer are good, but the camel, the rabbit, and the pig are not, for they do not meet both conditions. You shall not eat their meat nor touch their carcasses, for they are unclean."

Moses continued, "In the waters, you may eat anything with fins and scales, but whatever lives in the water without fins or scales is detestable to you. And among the birds, avoid those that prey or scavenge—such as the eagle, the vulture, and the raven. Also, do not eat any creeping creatures that walk on all fours or crawl on the ground."

The people listened carefully, for these laws were more than rules—they were a covenant with their God. By following them, they would remain holy and healthy, distinct from the surrounding peoples.

Years passed, and the Israelites learned to honor these instructions. They understood that God's commands were given out of love and wisdom, to guide their lives and keep them pure in body and spirit.

And so, through obedience to these laws, the people of Israel lived as a shining example of faithfulness, remembering always the words of Moses and the covenant they shared with the Lord.


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