Old Testament

Leviticus 11:18

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Leviticus 11:18, the text lists certain birds that are considered unclean for the Israelites to eat.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey,

KJVKing James Version

And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle,

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 11:18, the text lists certain birds that are considered unclean for the Israelites to eat. The mention of the swan, pelican, and gier eagle highlights the dietary laws that God established for His people. These laws were part of a broader set of guidelines intended to set the Israelites apart from other nations, emphasizing holiness and obedience to God's commands. The classification of clean and unclean animals served not only as dietary restrictions but also as a means to teach the Israelites about purity and the importance of following God's instructions. The specific mention of these birds indicates that they were not to be consumed, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance of dietary practices in ancient Israel. Understanding these laws helps us appreciate the context of the Israelites' relationship with God and their commitment to living according to His standards.

How to apply Leviticus 11:18 to your life

While we may not follow the same dietary laws today, the principle of living a life set apart for God remains relevant. We can reflect on our choices and behaviors, ensuring they align with our values and faith, promoting a lifestyle that honors God.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What birds are mentioned in Leviticus 11:18?

Leviticus 11:18 mentions the swan, pelican, and gier eagle as unclean birds that the Israelites were forbidden to eat. These specific birds are part of a broader list of dietary laws that God established for His people, emphasizing the importance of holiness and obedience to His commands.

Why were certain birds considered unclean in the Bible?

Certain birds, including those mentioned in Leviticus 11:18, were considered unclean due to their feeding habits or characteristics that symbolized impurity. These dietary laws served to distinguish the Israelites from other nations and to teach them about spiritual purity and obedience to God's instructions.

How do the dietary laws in Leviticus apply today?

While Christians are not bound by the dietary laws in Leviticus, the underlying principle of living a life set apart for God remains relevant. Believers can reflect on their choices and behaviors, ensuring they align with their faith and values, promoting a lifestyle that honors God in all aspects of life.

What is the significance of clean and unclean animals in the Bible?

The classification of clean and unclean animals in the Bible serves multiple purposes: it emphasizes God's holiness, teaches the Israelites about purity, and sets them apart from other nations. These laws were not just dietary restrictions but also a means to cultivate a deeper relationship with God through obedience.

The Book of Leviticus
Book Summary

The Book of Leviticus

Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.

Premium

Unlock the full Leviticus summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Leviticus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 27 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Leviticus summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.