What Does the Bible Say We Can Eat – The Bible includes many passages about food and diet, which can be found throughout both the Old and New Testaments. The Bible does not provide a clear-cut list of what is and isn’t permissible to eat, but instead offers general guidelines to help inform our decisions about what to eat.
For example, Leviticus 11 outlines a list of “clean” and “unclean” animals, while Deuteronomy 14 describes what foods are forbidden. Additionally, the Bible addresses food preparation and production, as well as the spiritual importance of food and fellowship. Across the Bible, we can glean principles to guide our dietary choices, such as eating in moderation and being mindful of the sources of our food.
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What Does the Bible Say We Can Eat
The Bible contains a wealth of dietary advice that many people follow today. From what foods to eat, to how to eat them and even how much to eat, the Bible offers guidance on a whole range of food-related topics. In the Old Testament, Leviticus 11 outlines the list of animals that God has deemed unclean, and therefore not to be eaten. The New Testament also contains a range of dietary advice and advice on eating habits. In this blog, we will explore what the Bible says about eating, from what vegetables and fruits to eat, to eating too much and even eating disorders.
- Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you
- Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you
- God wants you to enjoy good food
What Vegetables Does the Bible Say We Can Eat?
The Bible mentions a wide range of vegetables that are permissible to eat. These include beans, lentils, cucumbers, onions, garlic, asparagus, squash, and many more. The Bible also encourages us to eat vegetables as part of a balanced diet (Deuteronomy 8:8).
- Figs: Figs are found throughout the Bible, from Adam and Eve’s fig leaves to the parable of the fig tree. In the New Testament, Jesus often used the fig tree to illustrate a spiritual truth.
- Gourds: Gourds were used for a variety of purposes, including making containers and musical instruments. In the Bible, Jonah sheltered himself in a gourd vine, and Jesus used a gourd as an example of faith.
- Onions: Onions are mentioned throughout the Old Testament and were a common food in the Middle East. Onions were often used in sacrifices and as symbols of strength.
- Cucumbers: Cucumbers were a popular food in Biblical times, and were often served as an accompaniment to a meal, as well as being used as a medicinal remedy.
- Pomegranates: Pomegranates were an important part of the ancient world. They were used for religious ceremonies and often given as gifts. In the Bible, the pomegranate is a symbol of fertility and abundance.
- Lentils: Lentils were a common food in ancient times, and were used in a variety of dishes. In the Bible, lentils were often given to the poor, and were part of the peace offering in the Old Testament.
- Olives: Olives were widely cultivated in the ancient world and were an important part of the diet. In the Bible, olives represented peace and were often used in religious ceremonies.
- Grapes: Grapes were an important part of the ancient world, and were used to make wine, as well as being eaten as a food. In the Bible, the grapevine is a symbol of God’s blessing and abundance.
- Turnips: Turnips were a popular food in ancient times, and were often served as a side dish. In the Bible, turnips were often used as a metaphor for the condition of the soul.
- Carrots: Carrots were cultivated in the Middle East, and were a common food in Biblical times. Carrots were often used as an offering to God, and were a symbol of fertility.
What Fruits Does the Bible Say We Can Eat?
The Bible mentions a variety of fruits that are permissible to eat. These include apples, pomegranates, grapes, figs, olives, dates, and many more. Fruits are full of vitamins and minerals and are a great part of a healthy diet.
- Figs – Figs are mentioned several times in the Bible, most notably in the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Figs were a common source of food and were often dried and stored for later use. Figs were seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance, and were also used to make wine.
- Grapes – Grapes were a staple crop in the Middle East and were widely used in the Bible. Grapes were used to make wine, raisins, and other foods. Grapes were also used to make vinegar and grape juice, which was often used as a medicinal remedy.
- Pomegranates – The pomegranate was a symbol of fertility and abundance, and was often seen as a sign of good luck. The Bible mentions pomegranates several times, most notably in the stories of Adam and Eve and the Tower of Babel. Pomegranates were used to make wine and were also eaten fresh as a snack.
- Olives – Olives were a common source of food in the Middle East, and were often used to make oil. In the Bible, olives were often used as a symbol of peace and prosperity. Olives were also used to make soap and were even used to anoint kings.
- Apples – Apples were a common source of food in the Middle East and were mentioned several times in the Bible. Apples were a symbol of knowledge, and were also often seen as a sign of good luck. Apples were used to make cider and other beverages, as well as being eaten fresh.
Does the Bible Say We Can Eat Meat?
Yes, the Bible does say we can eat meat. In fact, the Bible even gives instructions as to which animals are permissible to eat. Animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and deer are all okay to eat, as long as they have been properly slaughtered (Leviticus 11:2-3).
What Does the Old Testament Say About Eating?
The Old Testament outlines a range of dietary laws that are to be followed by those who follow the faith. These laws include eating only clean animals (Leviticus 11:2-3), refraining from eating animals that have been sacrificed to idols (Leviticus 17:7-8), and eating only what is grown in the land (Deuteronomy 14:3-5).
List of of Unclean Meats in the Old Testament
- Swine: Swine are considered unclean in the Old Testament and are forbidden for consumption. This includes the flesh, the offal, and the milk of pigs.
- Camel: Camels are considered unclean and their consumption is forbidden.
- Rock badger: The rock badger is considered unclean in the Old Testament, and its consumption is forbidden.
- Hare: The hare is considered unclean in the Old Testament, and its consumption is forbidden.
- Conies: The conies, or rock rabbits, are considered unclean in the Old Testament and their consumption is forbidden.
- Abominable creatures: The abominable creatures are considered unclean in the Old Testament, and their consumption is forbidden. This includes creatures such as bats, rats, mice, lizards, and other reptiles.
- Certain birds: The Old Testament lists several birds as unclean and forbids their consumption. These include eagles, vultures, ravens, owls, hawks, cormorants, storks, and others.
- Fish without fins and scales: Fish without fins and scales are considered unclean in the Old Testament, and their consumption is forbidden. This includes shellfish, eels, and catfish.
- Insects: Insects are considered unclean in the Old Testament and their consumption is forbidden. This includes flying insects that walk on all fours, such as the locust, the bald locust, the beetle, and the grasshopper.
- Carrion: The consumption of carrion, or dead animals, is forbidden in the Old Testament.
What Does the New Testament Say About Eating?
The New Testament contains a range of dietary advice as well. Jesus speaks about eating in moderation (Matthew 6:25) and Paul talks about eating in a spirit of thankfulness (1 Timothy 4:4-5). Paul also encourages us to eat a balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Bible Verses on Eating Habits
There is a range of Bible verses that offer guidance on our eating habits. Philippians 4:5 encourages us to eat with a sense of moderation and thankfulness, while Proverbs 23:2 cautions us against overindulgence.
Eating Too Much: Does the Bible Address Gluttony?
Yes, the Bible does address gluttony. Proverbs 23:21 warns against overindulging, and Proverbs 23:2 says that those who eat too much will suffer. The Bible also encourages us to be content with what we have (1 Timothy 6:6-8), and to avoid overeating.
- Proverbs 23:20-21: “Do not be among drunkards or gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.” In this verse, the Bible warns us against the dangers of gluttony. It is clear that gluttony can lead to poverty and a lack of self-control.
- Proverbs 28:7: “Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.” This verse reminds us that our actions can reflect on our parents and family. If we choose to associate with gluttons, it can bring shame to our father.
- Isaiah 5:11-12: “Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may follow intoxicating drink; who continue until night, till wine inflames them! The harp and the strings, the tambourine and flute, and wine are in their feasts; but they do not regard the work of the LORD.” This verse makes it clear that gluttony can lead to a lack of regard for God’s work.
- Proverbs 23:2: “And put a knife to your throat if you are a man given to appetite.” This verse warns us against allowing our appetites to control us. We must be careful not to let our hunger and cravings become our master.
- Luke 21:34: “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life.” This verse reminds us to be careful not to allow ourselves to become too focused on earthly pleasures. We must be careful to stay focused on God and His Word.
How Does God Want Us to Eat?
God wants us to eat in a spirit of thankfulness and moderation. The Bible encourages us to eat a balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables and fruits (1 Corinthians 10:31). We are also told to avoid overindulging and gluttony (Proverbs 23:2).
The Bible and Eating Meat
The Bible does allow us to eat meat, as long as it is from animals that have been properly slaughtered (Leviticus 11:2-3). We are also warned against eating animals that have been sacrificed to idols (Leviticus 17:7-8).
What Food Did God Give Us in the Bible?
God has provided us with a variety of food, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat. We are encouraged to enjoy these foods in moderation and with thankfulness (Philippians 4:5).
Biblical Advice on Eating Healthily
The Bible provides a range of advice on eating healthily. We are encouraged to eat a balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables and fruits (1 Corinthians 10:31). We are also warned against overindulging and gluttony (Proverbs 23:2).
Does the Bible Say Anything About Eating Disorders?
The Bible does not directly mention eating disorders. However, it does talk about being content with what we have (1 Timothy 6:6-8), and avoiding overindulging (Proverbs 23:2). The Bible also encourages us to look after our bodies, as our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
What Is the Bible’s Perspective on Fast Food?
The Bible does not directly mention fast food. However, it does caution us against overindulging and gluttony (Proverbs 23:2). It also encourages us to eat a balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables and fruits (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Eating In Moderation: What Does the Bible Say?
The Bible encourages us to eat in moderation. Philippians 4:5 says that we should eat with a sense of thankfulness and moderation. Proverbs 23:2 cautions us against overindulging, and Proverbs 23:21 warns against gluttony.
Final Thoughts – What Does the Bible Say We Can Eat
The Bible offers a range of dietary advice for those who follow the faith. We are encouraged to eat a balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables and fruits (1 Corinthians 10:31). We are also warned against overindulging and gluttony (Proverbs 23:2). The Bible also mentions a variety of animals that are permissible to eat (Leviticus 11:2-3). Finally, the Bible encourages us to eat in moderation, with thankfulness (Philippians 4:5).
