* This.
The distinction of clean and unclean animals, (see note on Le
11:2) existed even before the flood, though it probably then
only related to sacrifices; but at this time we find there
were very particular laws enacted respecting the diet of the
people, and the ceremonial uncleanness contracted by touching
the carcases of unclean animals. The reasons for the
enactment of these laws seem to be--1. As a test of
obedience, and to teach the Israelites habits of self-denial,
and the government of their appetites. 2. To keep them
distinct from other nations, and consequently from their
idolatrous usages, by throwing hindrances in the way of their
social intercourse; for these distinctions were applicable
both to persons and things. The Canaanites not only ate the
animals prohibited by Moses, which we usually eat, but others
also, among which dogs were one. Besides, many of those
declared unclean were sacred among the heathen, and
sacrificed to their gods. 3. Because those prohibited were
innutritive and unwholesome; as the swine, the flesh of which
being strong and difficult to digest, affords a very gross
aliment, and produces, especially in hot climates, cutaneous,
scrophulous, and scorbutic disorders, as the itch, leprosy,
etc.
7:37 14:54 15:32 Eze 43:12
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