Old Testament

Deuteronomy 14:15

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

the owl, the night hawk, the cuckoo, and every kind of hawk,

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckow, and the hawk after his kind,

What Deuteronomy 14:15 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a list of specific birds is mentioned, which are considered unclean according to the dietary laws given to the Israelites. These birds, including the owl and the night hawk, symbolize a separation from certain practices. The focus is on what is acceptable and what is not in the context of food. This reflects a broader theme of purity and holiness in daily life. By avoiding these birds, the Israelites were reminded to maintain their identity and values. The dietary laws served as a way to distinguish them from other nations. This verse encourages readers to think about what they consume, both physically and spiritually. It invites reflection on the choices we make and how they align with our beliefs and values. Ultimately, it’s about living a life that honors what we hold dear and making choices that reflect our commitment to those principles. Understanding these guidelines helps us appreciate the importance of intentional living and the impact of our choices.

How to apply Deuteronomy 14:15 to your life

Consider what you consume in your life, not just in terms of food but also in your thoughts and actions. Reflect on how your choices align with your values. Make intentional decisions that honor your beliefs and contribute to your personal growth and integrity. This can lead to a more fulfilling life experience and deeper self-awareness. Embrace the idea of living intentionally and mindfully every day, focusing on what truly matters.

Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Deuteronomy 14:15

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Deuteronomy 14:15

At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Deuteronomy 14:15 mean?

Deuteronomy 14:15 lists specific birds that are considered unclean for the Israelites to eat. This verse emphasizes dietary laws that reflect a commitment to purity and identity, encouraging the Israelites to maintain their distinctiveness from other nations.

What is the significance of the birds mentioned in Deuteronomy 14:15?

The birds mentioned in Deuteronomy 14:15, such as the owl and night hawk, symbolize practices that the Israelites were to avoid. These dietary restrictions served to reinforce their values and beliefs, promoting a lifestyle that honors their commitment to holiness.

Why are certain birds considered unclean in Deuteronomy 14:15?

In Deuteronomy 14:15, certain birds are deemed unclean based on the dietary laws given to the Israelites. These laws were intended to guide their choices and behaviors, helping them to live in a way that reflects their identity and values.

How does Deuteronomy 14:15 relate to modern dietary choices?

Deuteronomy 14:15 encourages reflection on what we consume, not just in food but also in thoughts and actions. It invites individuals to consider how their choices align with their personal values and beliefs, promoting intentional living.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.