Old Testament

Leviticus 11:26

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

At a Glance

In Leviticus 11:26, God outlines specific dietary laws for the Israelites, focusing on animals that are considered unclean.

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

Every animal that has a split hoof but not one completely divided in two, or that does not bring its food back up from its stomach to chew it again, is unclean to you. Anyone who touches one of these animals becomes unclean.

KJVKing James Version

The carcases of every beast which divideth the hoof, and is not clovenfooted, nor cheweth the cud, are unclean unto you: every one that toucheth them shall be unclean.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 11:26, God outlines specific dietary laws for the Israelites, focusing on animals that are considered unclean. An animal is deemed unclean if it has a split hoof that is not fully divided or if it does not chew its cud. This means that certain animals, despite having some characteristics of clean animals, are still prohibited for consumption. The verse emphasizes the importance of these laws, as touching an unclean animal also renders a person unclean. This reflects the broader theme of holiness and separation from impurity in the Israelite community, highlighting the need for adherence to God's commandments to maintain spiritual cleanliness and community integrity.

How to apply Leviticus 11:26 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of following guidelines that promote our spiritual and moral well-being. Just as the Israelites were called to avoid unclean animals, we should be mindful of what we allow into our lives, ensuring it aligns with our values and beliefs.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Leviticus 11:26 mean?

Leviticus 11:26 explains dietary laws for the Israelites, stating that animals with split hooves that are not fully divided or that do not chew cud are considered unclean. This means they are not fit for consumption, and touching them also makes a person unclean.

What is the significance of clean and unclean animals in Leviticus 11:26?

The distinction between clean and unclean animals in Leviticus 11:26 highlights the importance of holiness and obedience to God's commandments. It serves to maintain spiritual cleanliness and community integrity among the Israelites.

What animals are considered unclean according to Leviticus 11:26?

According to Leviticus 11:26, animals that have a split hoof but are not fully cloven or do not chew cud are deemed unclean. This includes certain species that may appear similar to clean animals but do not meet the specified criteria.

How does Leviticus 11:26 apply to modern life?

Leviticus 11:26 encourages individuals to be mindful of what they allow into their lives, promoting spiritual and moral well-being. It serves as a reminder to align our choices with our values and beliefs.

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.