Leviticus 11:22 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 11:22 mean?

Leviticus 11:22 lists specific types of insects that the Israelites were allowed to eat: the locust, the bald locust, the beetle, and the grasshopper, each according to its kind. This verse gives permission for these particular insects to be considered clean food under the dietary laws given to Israel.

In this part of Leviticus, God is speaking to Moses and Aaron, giving detailed instructions to the Israelites about which animals are clean or unclean for eating. The context is a larger section about food laws, and this verse clarifies that while most insects are forbidden, these specific ones are exceptions.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 11:22

• אֲרְבֶּה (’arbeh, "locust" H697): This word refers to a type of locust, a common insect in the region, and is specifically named as permitted to eat. It highlights that not all insects are forbidden—some, like this one, are allowed.
• לְמִינֵהוּ (leminéhu, "after his kind" H4327): This phrase means "according to its kind," indicating that not just one species but all varieties within these insect groups are included. It broadens the permission beyond a single type.
• חָגָב (ḥagav, "grasshopper" H2284): This term points to another specific insect, the grasshopper, which is also allowed. The distinction between different insects shows careful attention to the kinds of creatures the Israelites might encounter.
• חַרְגֹּל (ḥargol, "bald locust" H5556) and חָסִיל (ḥasil, "beetle" H2728): These words name other insects that are less familiar in English but were known in the ancient world. Their inclusion shows the law’s practical concern for local food sources.

Why Leviticus 11:22 matters

• Leviticus 11:22 clears up the misconception that all insects were forbidden in Israelite diets; it shows that some were specifically allowed.
• The verse emphasizes careful distinctions in the law, showing that God’s instructions were detailed and practical, taking into account local foods.
• This verse connects to the broader passage by showing that the food laws were not arbitrary but thoughtfully organized, with exceptions made for certain creatures that were common and useful as food.